Class 12 Political Science - WEST-BENGAL

International Organisations

The chapter 'International Organisations' in Class 12 Political Science for West Bengal (WBBSE) students explores the necessity and functioning of global bodies in maintaining international peace and security. It focuses primarily on the United Nations (UN), its principal organs, specialized agencies, and the evolution of its structure in a changing world order. Students will examine the role of the UN in disarmament, human rights, and economic development, alongside debates on the reform of the UN Security Council. This chapter is vital for board exams as it tests conceptual understanding of global governance and India's position in international affairs.

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Key Concepts

League of Nations

The predecessor to the United Nations, established after World War I in 1920 to prevent future wars, but ultimately failed due to the lack of major power participation and enforcement mechanisms.

Principal Organs of the UN

The six main bodies of the United Nations consisting of the General Assembly, Security Council, International Court of Justice, Secretariat, Trusteeship Council, and Economic and Social Council.

Veto Power

The special voting power held by the five permanent members of the UN Security Council (USA, UK, France, Russia, and China) to block any substantive resolution.

Amnesty International

An influential international Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) that campaigns globally for the protection of human rights and exposes human rights abuses.

UNICEF and UNESCO

Specialized agencies of the UN; UNICEF works for children's health, education, and welfare, while UNESCO promotes international collaboration in education, science, and culture.

Important Formulas

1945: Establishment of the United Nations (October 24)
1992: General Assembly resolution adopted regarding UN Security Council reform
2005: Establishment of the UN Peacebuilding Commission and Human Rights Council

Board Exam Info

In the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBBSE) Class 12 Political Science exam, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 10 marks. Questions usually include Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Short Answer Type Questions (SAQs) regarding headquarters or organs, and Long Answer Type Questions (LAQs) focusing on UN reforms or the functions of the General Assembly and Security Council.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the reform of the UN Security Council considered necessary today?

Reform is needed because the current structure reflects the global power dynamics of 1945 post-WWII, lacking adequate representation from developing nations like India, Africa, and Latin America.

What are the permanent members of the UN Security Council?

The five permanent members are the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and China (P5).

What is the main function of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)?

The ICJ, located in The Hague, acts as the principal judicial organ of the UN to settle legal disputes submitted by states and give advisory opinions on legal questions.

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