Not familiar with the UN
General Assembly (UNGA) or feeling confused by the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Here’s a useful glossary to help you navigate the terminology associated with the UN General Assembly's annual gathering of global leaders.
### Key Terms to Know
**UN General Assembly (UNGA)**: This is the main deliberative body of the United Nations, where all 193 member states have a voice. The annual meeting typically takes place in
New York City and serves as a platform for leaders to discuss pressing global issues.
**Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)**: Adopted in 2015, these 17 goals aim to address various global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice. The SDGs are part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
**Resolution**: A formal text adopted by the General Assembly that expresses the will of the member states on a particular issue. Resolutions can cover a wide range of topics and are often non-binding.
**Plenary Session**: A meeting where all member states can participate and discuss issues. These sessions are crucial for fostering dialogue and collaboration among nations.
**Agenda Item**: Specific topics that are scheduled for discussion during the General Assembly meetings. Each item is typically assigned a number and can cover a variety of issues, from security to human rights.
**Consensus**: A general agreement among member states on a particular issue. While not always achievable, consensus is often sought to ensure that resolutions reflect the collective will of the international community.
****: The political, economic, or cultural relations between two countries. Discussions at the UNGA often involve bilateral meetings where leaders can address issues directly with one another.
**Multilateralism**: The practice of coordinating relations between three or more countries. The UNGA is a key platform for multilateral diplomacy, allowing nations to work together on global challenges.
**Side Event**: These are events organized by member states, UN agencies, or civil society groups that take place alongside the main sessions of the General Assembly. They provide additional opportunities for discussion and networking.
**High-Level Meeting**: A gathering of senior officials, including heads of state or government, to discuss specific issues of importance. These meetings often result in significant declarations or commitments.
**Intergovernmental Negotiations**: Discussions among member states aimed at reaching agreements on specific issues. These negotiations can be complex and require extensive diplomacy.
By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll be better equipped to understand the discussions and decisions made during the UN General Assembly. Whether you’re a seasoned observer or a newcomer, this glossary will help you navigate the intricate world of international diplomacy.
**Question 1:** What is the UN General Assembly (UNGA)?
**Answer:** The UN General Assembly is a yearly meeting where world leaders gather to discuss and address global issues, set international policies, and promote cooperation among member states.
**Question 2:** What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
**Answer:** The Sustainable Development Goals are a set of 17 global goals established by the United Nations in 2015, aimed at addressing various social, economic, and environmental challenges by 2030.
**Question 3:** Why is the UNGA important for global governance?
**Answer:** The UNGA provides a platform for all member states to voice their opinions, negotiate agreements, and collaborate on solutions to pressing global issues, thereby fostering international cooperation and dialogue.
**Question 4:** How often does the UN General Assembly meet?
**Answer:** The UN General Assembly meets annually, typically in September, to discuss and review a wide range of international issues and to set the agenda for the coming year.
**Question 5:** What role do world leaders play during the UNGA meetings?
**Answer:** World leaders present their countries' positions on various issues, engage in discussions, and participate in negotiations to reach consensus on important global matters during the UNGA meetings.