Embarking on the journey of civil services examination demands a strategic and comprehensive approach, especially when it comes to choosing optional subjects. One such optional subject that holds immense significance in the UPSC mains examination is Political Science and International Relations (PSIR). Among the various subtopics within PSIR, the United Nations (UN) stands out as a crucial area of study. This blog aims to unravel the intricacies of the PSIR optional topic by delving into the previous year questions specifically related to the United Nations from 2013 to 2023. By examining the evolution of questions over the years, aspirants can gain valuable insights into the changing dynamics of the UN’s role in global affairs and better equip themselves for the challenges that lie ahead in the examination.
Understanding the historical context, evolving dynamics, and contemporary relevance of the United Nations is essential for aspirants aiming for success in the UPSC mains. As we navigate through a decade of previous year questions, we will analyze the patterns, thematic variations, and the emphasis placed on certain aspects of the UN. This exploration will not only aid aspirants in crafting a nuanced understanding of the subject but will also empower them to formulate well-rounded answers that reflect a deep comprehension of the UN’s role in shaping international relations. So, join us on this insightful journey as we dissect the PSIR optional topic with a focus on United Nations, deciphering the roadmap to success in the UPSC mains examination.
United Nations – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains PSIR Optional)
Envisaged role and actual record; specialized UN agencies-aims and functioning; the need for UN reforms.
1. Comment: International Court of Justice. (1991)
2. ‘The UN has done well but not well enough. Comment. (1991)
3. Comment: Compulsory Jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. (1992)
4. ‘The United Nations is not political system acting in a vacuum: nor does it operate above international system/ Comment. (1992)
5. Comment: Case for a permanent UN peace keeping force. (1993)
6. Comment: UN’s peacekeeping role in domestic conflicts. (1994)
7. Comment: Role of international Law in international cooperation. (1995)
8. “From the start, the United Nations become a microcosm of world politics, with developments within the institution tending to mirror the atmosphere and happenings outside its walls.” Comment. (1995)
9. Judged from the past, UN does not hold much promise to free the Third World from the clutches of neo-imperialism. Elucidate. (1996)
10. Analyse the challenges and prospects of the UNO in becoming a world state. (1998)
11. Write a critical essay on the role of the Third World in international relations, especially in the United Nations. (1999)
12. Comment: The U.N. General Assembly Millennium Summit Sep-2000. (2000)
13. Comment: The compulsory jurisdiction clause under the statute of the International Court of Justice. (2001)
14. Comment: International Court of Justice. (2006)
15. “Few agencies of International co-operation have been more successful in tending to the welfare of humanity than the I.L.O.” Discuss the organisation and activities of the International Labour Organisation in the light of the above statement. (2006)
16. Analyse critically the major changes in the role of the United Nations (UN) since the onset of the new millennium. (2007)
17. “The UN today is more of a social service organisation than an exclusively security-oriented body.” Critically examine. (2010)
18. How far the efforts to maintain international order in the post-Cold War period by the UN have been successful? (2011)
19. What are the major impediments to UN Security Council reform? (2011)
20. Do you agree that the U.N. has failed to contain transnational terrorism? Elaborate your answer with examples. (2014)
21. Argue a case for U.N. reform in the context of changing global milieu. (2014)
22. How far are the world governance mechanisms, dominated by IMF and World Bank, legitimate and relevant? What measures do you suggest to improve their effectiveness in global governance? (2015)
23. Has the reform of the economic and social arrangements of the United Nations been effective? (2015)
24. What are the real objectives of Millennium Development Goals (MDG)? Do you think that millennium development goals have been able to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation and sustainable development? (2015)
25. Do you endorse that the United Nations needs major changes in its structures and functioning? Suggest the changes for efficient improvements. (2016)
26. Do you agree with the view that despite the limitations in the functioning of the UN, it has distinguished and unique achievements to its credit? (2017)
27. Discuss the relevance of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on the security of women in conflict zones. (2018)
28,. In what way does the predominance of the USA in the UN funding affect the decision making? (2019)
29. Do you think that sustainable development goals are really attainable by 2030? (2019)
30. Evaluate the role of the International Court of Justice in inter-State disputes. (2019)
31. Discuss the significance and the urgency of the UN Security Council reforms. Explain the relevance of the reform proposals made by the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres for the developing countries. (2020)
32. What measures have been undertaken by the United Nations for its reforms? (150 words.) (2021)
33. Describe the composition of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Discuss its voluntary jurisdication.(2022)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the primary purpose of the United Nations (UN)?
The United Nations was established to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security among nations. Its primary objectives include preventing conflicts, providing humanitarian aid, fostering sustainable development, and promoting respect for human rights worldwide.
Q: How is the United Nations structured, and what are its main organs?
The UN has a complex structure comprising several key organs. The General Assembly is the main deliberative body, the Security Council is responsible for maintaining peace and security, the International Court of Justice settles legal disputes, and the Secretariat carries out day-to-day operations. Additionally, specialized agencies, programs, and funds contribute to specific global issues.
Q: What are the major achievements of the United Nations in the realm of peacekeeping and conflict resolution?
The UN has played a pivotal role in peacekeeping efforts globally. Notable successes include the resolution of conflicts in Namibia, Cambodia, and El Salvador. However, challenges persist, and the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions varies. Understanding the nuances of these endeavors is crucial for comprehending the UN’s impact on global peace and security.
Q: How does the United Nations address global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development?
The UN has been at the forefront of addressing pressing global challenges. Initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to eradicate poverty, ensure environmental sustainability, and foster social and economic development. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) serves as a platform for international cooperation to combat climate change.
Q: What is the role of the United Nations in promoting human rights, and how does it address humanitarian crises?
Human rights are a cornerstone of the UN’s mission, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The organization works to protect and promote human rights globally through various mechanisms, including the Human Rights Council. Additionally, the UN responds to humanitarian crises by coordinating relief efforts, providing aid, and addressing the root causes of conflicts that lead to such crises.
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