Understanding the major international organizations and alliances that structure global cooperation and power relations.
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Card 1
To maintain international peace and security among states
Explanation
The UN was founded mainly to prevent war and help resolve conflicts peacefully.
Common mistake
People often think the UN’s main purpose is economic development rather than peace and security.
Card 2
It must be a peace‑loving state accepted by the General Assembly
Explanation
Membership requires a recommendation from the Security Council and approval by the General Assembly.
Common mistake
Some think any territory can join the UN even if it is not a recognized state.
Card 3
To serve as a universal forum where all member states debate global issues
Explanation
The General Assembly provides equal voice to all member states but usually adopts non‑binding resolutions.
Common mistake
Many assume the General Assembly can impose binding decisions like a world parliament.
Card 4
Deciding binding measures to address threats to international peace and security
Explanation
The Security Council can impose sanctions and authorize force, making its decisions binding on members.
Common mistake
People sometimes think only the General Assembly makes key peace decisions, not the Security Council.
Card 5
Permanent members hold veto power over substantive Council decisions
Explanation
Five permanent members can block substantive resolutions, while elected members cannot.
Common mistake
Some think all Security Council members have equal voting power, including veto rights.
Card 6
Deploying international forces to help maintain ceasefires and stabilize conflict areas
Explanation
Peacekeepers are usually lightly armed and operate with host‑state consent to support political solutions.
Common mistake
Many believe UN peacekeepers are an offensive army sent to win wars for one side.
Card 7
To set and enforce rules for international trade between member states
Explanation
The WTO provides a framework of rules to make trade more predictable and open.
Common mistake
People often confuse the WTO with the World Bank, which lends money for development projects.
Card 8
It adjudicates trade disputes and authorizes remedies when rules are broken
Explanation
Countries use the WTO system to resolve trade conflicts based on agreed rules instead of unilateral retaliation.
Common mistake
Some think the WTO can punish countries for any policy choice, not just violations of trade rules.
Card 9
To ensure members’ security through coordinated collective defense
Explanation
NATO members agree that an attack on one is treated as an attack on all, reinforcing deterrence.
Common mistake
People sometimes assume NATO is mainly an economic or political union like the European Union.
Card 10
An armed attack on one ally is considered an attack on all allies
Explanation
Article 5 underpins NATO’s deterrent power by promising mutual assistance if a member is attacked.
Common mistake
Many think Article 5 forces automatic war, when it actually allows members to choose the form of help.
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