February 15, 2024

Global Governance in Crisis: Jennifer Trahan on the Role of UN Security Council and General Assembly in the Invasion of Ukraine

In her recent law review article, "The Role of the UN Security Council & General Assembly In Responding to the Invasion of Ukraine," Jennifer Trahan, clinical professor at the Center for Global Affairs, explores the roles of the UN Security Council and UN General Assembly related to the February 24, 2022 invasion by Russian forces of the territory of Ukraine and delves into innovative methodologies that can enhance the effectiveness of these bodies in addressing the ongoing situation. The article considers the Security Council’s paralysis, and suggests states make more use of the UN Charter language that requires obligatory abstention in voting of a “party to a dispute” under Chapter VI; the article also considers legality issues related to a permanent member’s veto use that aids its own jus cogens violation. As to both topics, the article suggests the General Assembly could weigh in by issuing a substantive resolution or requesting an Advisory Opinion from the International Court of Justice. The General Assembly, or the Council acting under Chapter VI, could also trigger the establishment of a Special Tribunal on the Crime of Aggression for the situation of Ukraine.

Read the full article here

 

Related Articles