Question 93 from UPSC CSE 2022 - Internatio nal Relations

Question

With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements:
1. The UN General Assembly can grant observer status to the non-member States.
2. Inter-governmental organisations can seek observer status in the UN General Assembly.
3. Permanent Observers in the UN General Assembly can maintain a mission at the UN headquarters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. 1, 2, and 3

Strategy: - Confirm that UN observer status is available to both non-member states and intergovernmental organizations (IGOs).
- Verify that non-member states like the Holy See hold observer status.
- Affirm that IGOs, such as the EU and International Solar Alliance, are granted observer status.
- Ensure Permanent Observers typically maintain missions at UN Headquarters.
- Conclude that all three original statements align with established protocols.

Key Info: ## United Nations General Assembly Observer Status

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is the main deliberative organ of the UN, comprising all 193 member states.

The UNGA can grant observer status to:
- Non-member states (e.g., Holy See, State of Palestine)
- Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) (e.g., European Union, International Solar Alliance, Red Cross)

Key aspects of observer status:
- Allows participation in sessions and work of the General Assembly without voting rights.
- Observers can maintain permanent missions at UN Headquarters in New York, facilitating direct interaction with UN organs.
- The process involves application review by the Sixth Committee (Legal) and approval by the General Assembly.
- Enhances diplomatic engagement and international cooperation for entities without full statehood or membership.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 and 2 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 2 and 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: 1 and 3 only