How and why the UN General Assembly is gaining prominence

As world leaders convene at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, concerns about the organization's shortcomings are growing. From Israel's genocidal actions against Palestinians to the United States' illegal bombing of Iran and Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the UN has faced increasing criticism for its limitations.

The Security Council's veto system, which allows the five permanent members to bypass oversight of their activities, has hindered meaningful intervention in world crises since the Cold War ended. Despite these setbacks, the General Assembly has emerged as a significant force in global politics. With 193 member states, each possessing an equal vote, the UNGA offers a level playing field that has allowed small and middle powers to gain influence.

The UNGA's traditional role in defining the UN's work has been overlooked, but in recent years, it has become a crucial platform for defining and shaping the organization's agenda. Throughout its history, the General Assembly has been instrumental in advancing decolonisation, self-determination, and the human rights agenda. Its work has been shaped by the bonds of solidarity among Global South states and a commitment to addressing global inequality and injustice.

Recent resolutions condemning Israel's military campaign in Gaza and Ukraine's invasion of Ukraine demonstrate the UNGA's growing importance in holding large states accountable and amplifying the agency of smaller and middle powers. Initiatives like the Liechtenstein Proposal and the "Uniting for Peace" mechanism have sought to bypass the Security Council and bring issues to the General Assembly for debate and action.

As the dysfunction of the Security Council persists, the role of the General Assembly in shaping global politics becomes increasingly vital.