Secretary-general

Definition

The secretary-general is the chief administrative officer of the United Nations, responsible for carrying out the day-to-day work of the organization and representing it at various international forums. This role involves overseeing the UN's operations, facilitating discussions among member states, and ensuring that the organization's goals are met through effective leadership and management.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The secretary-general is appointed by the General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security Council, usually for a five-year term that can be renewed.
2. The first secretary-general was Trygve Lie, who served from 1946 to 1952, and since then there have been several notable secretaries-general, including Dag Hammarskjöld and Kofi Annan.
3. The role requires strong diplomatic skills, as the secretary-general often mediates conflicts and fosters dialogue between member states.
4. The secretary-general can bring attention to global issues by making public statements and reports, thereby influencing international policy discussions.
5. The position has evolved over time, with modern secretaries-general taking on a more proactive role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, humanitarian crises, and sustainable development.

Review Questions

• What are some key responsibilities of the secretary-general in relation to the operations of the United Nations?
  • The secretary-general's key responsibilities include overseeing the day-to-day operations of the United Nations, implementing decisions made by the General Assembly and Security Council, and managing UN staff and resources. They play a crucial role in facilitating discussions among member states and can act as a mediator in conflicts. Additionally, they represent the UN at various international events and make public statements to highlight important global issues.
• How does the appointment process of the secretary-general illustrate the balance of power within the United Nations?
  • The appointment process of the secretary-general showcases a balance of power within the United Nations by requiring both the recommendation of the Security Council and the approval of the General Assembly. This process reflects a collaborative approach where both bodies must agree on a candidate, ensuring that key member states have a voice in this significant appointment. It highlights how diplomacy plays an essential role in maintaining unity among diverse member states while selecting a leader for the organization.
• Evaluate how the evolving role of the secretary-general has impacted global governance and international relations since the establishment of the UN.
  • The evolving role of the secretary-general has significantly impacted global governance and international relations by transforming it into a more dynamic position that addresses contemporary global challenges. Modern secretaries-general have taken proactive stances on issues like climate change and humanitarian crises, often calling for collective action from member states. This shift has enhanced the visibility and relevance of the UN in world affairs, encouraging greater collaboration among nations while also facing criticism regarding its effectiveness in enforcing resolutions. The result is a complex interplay between diplomacy, international law, and global cooperation that continues to shape contemporary international relations.

Related terms

United Nations: An international organization founded in 1945, composed of 193 member states, aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations.

Security Council: A principal organ of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the authority to make binding decisions on member states.

General Assembly: The main deliberative body of the United Nations, where all member states have equal representation and discuss important global issues.