Article 19

Definition

Article 19 of the United Nations Charter outlines the procedures for the assessment and collection of contributions from UN member states. This article is crucial as it establishes the obligations of member states regarding their financial contributions, ensuring that the UN can maintain its operations and fund its various programs effectively. A key aspect of Article 19 is its stipulation that a member state may lose its voting rights in the General Assembly if it fails to pay its dues, highlighting the importance of financial responsibility within the organization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Article 19 emphasizes that a member state can lose its voting rights in the General Assembly if it fails to pay its assessed contributions for two consecutive years.
2. The assessments are calculated using an assessment scale that considers factors such as national income and economic performance.
3. The loss of voting rights due to non-payment under Article 19 serves as an incentive for countries to meet their financial obligations to the UN.
4. Article 19 is part of a broader framework that supports the financial stability of the UN, allowing it to fulfill its mission effectively.
5. Despite losing voting rights, a member state may still participate in debates and discussions at the General Assembly, but cannot vote on resolutions.

Review Questions

• How does Article 19 impact a member state's financial responsibilities towards the UN?
  • Article 19 plays a significant role in defining a member state's financial obligations to the United Nations by stipulating that countries must pay their assessed contributions to maintain their voting rights in the General Assembly. This creates a direct link between financial responsibility and participation in decision-making processes within the UN. The article encourages compliance with financial duties by implementing consequences for non-payment, thus ensuring that the organization can operate effectively.
• Analyze how Article 19 influences the budgetary processes of the United Nations.
  • Article 19 directly influences budgetary processes by requiring timely assessments and payments from member states. This legal obligation ensures that the UN has a reliable stream of funding necessary for its operations, programs, and peacekeeping efforts. Furthermore, the stipulation regarding loss of voting rights incentivizes countries to adhere to their financial commitments, which is essential for maintaining a functional budget and achieving organizational goals.
• Evaluate the implications of Article 19 on international relations and cooperation among UN member states.
  • The implications of Article 19 on international relations are profound, as it creates a framework where financial obligations are tied to political participation. Countries that fail to meet their commitments may experience a loss of influence in UN discussions and decisions. This dynamic fosters a sense of accountability and encourages nations to collaborate and support one another in fulfilling their financial responsibilities. Additionally, it highlights the interconnectedness between financial contributions and diplomatic engagement within the global community, reinforcing the importance of cooperation among member states.

Related terms

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

Assessment Scale: The formula used to determine the financial contributions required from each UN member state based on their economic capacity.

Peacekeeping Budget: The financial resources allocated by the UN for peacekeeping operations, which are often funded through assessments on member states.