Two-thirds majority

Definition

A two-thirds majority is a voting requirement that mandates at least two-thirds of the votes cast to be in favor of a proposal for it to be approved. This threshold is significant as it ensures that decisions have substantial support, preventing the imposition of will by a simple majority, and it is particularly relevant in settings that aim for broader consensus, such as the UN General Assembly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the UN General Assembly, a two-thirds majority is typically required for important decisions, such as those related to amendments to the UN Charter or the admission of new member states.
2. This voting standard helps to promote international cooperation and prevent unilateral actions by major powers within the assembly.
3. The requirement for a two-thirds majority reflects the UN's commitment to collective decision-making and ensures diverse perspectives are considered.
4. When voting for resolutions, if there is a tie or if the two-thirds threshold is not met, the proposal fails, showcasing the importance of broad consensus.
5. Certain types of votes, like procedural matters, may only require a simple majority, highlighting the distinction between different levels of decision-making within the assembly.

Review Questions

• How does the two-thirds majority requirement in the UN General Assembly influence decision-making processes?
  • The two-thirds majority requirement significantly influences decision-making in the UN General Assembly by ensuring that proposals receive substantial support before being approved. This high threshold encourages member states to engage in dialogue and negotiation to build broader consensus on important issues. As a result, decisions reflect a wider range of perspectives and help promote cooperation among member states.
• What are some examples of decisions that require a two-thirds majority in the UN General Assembly, and why is this threshold particularly significant?
  • In the UN General Assembly, decisions such as amendments to the UN Charter and the admission of new member states require a two-thirds majority. This threshold is significant because it prevents any single nation or group from dominating crucial decisions and ensures that important changes reflect widespread support among member states. It fosters collaboration and deliberation, which are essential for maintaining international stability and legitimacy.
• Evaluate the implications of having a two-thirds majority requirement versus a simple majority in international organizations like the UN General Assembly.
  • Having a two-thirds majority requirement versus a simple majority in organizations like the UN General Assembly has profound implications on governance and policy-making. A two-thirds majority fosters greater consensus and encourages negotiation among diverse member states, leading to decisions that are more widely accepted and supported. Conversely, a simple majority can facilitate quicker decision-making but risks marginalizing minority views and creating division. The higher threshold serves as a mechanism to safeguard against hasty or unilateral decisions, thus promoting long-term stability and cooperation among nations.

Related terms

Simple Majority: A simple majority requires more than half of the votes cast to approve a decision, making it easier for proposals to pass with minimal support.

Quorum: The minimum number of members required to be present for a vote to be valid, ensuring that decisions are made with adequate participation.

Consensus Decision-Making: A collaborative process where all members work together to reach an agreement that everyone can accept, often seen as an alternative to majority voting.