Question

Which provision of the UN Charter provides that the United Nations shall promote universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all?

• A. Article 55
• B. Article 56
• C. Article 57
• D. Article 58

Hint:

Remember the legal relationship between Articles 55 and 56 of the UN Charter: Article 55 sets the goals (including human rights promotion), while Article 56 creates the legal obligation for member states to cooperate to achieve those goals.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to identify the specific article of the Charter of the United Nations that mandates the organization to promote universal respect for and observance of human rights.

Step 2: Key Legal Principles and Approach:
The promotion of human rights is one of the primary purposes of the United Nations, as set out in Article 1 of the Charter.
Chapter IX of the Charter, entitled "International Economic and Social Co-operation," contains the specific obligations of the organization and its member states to achieve these goals.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Analysis of Article 55: Article 55 of the UN Charter states that with a view to the creation of conditions of stability and well-being which are necessary for peaceful and friendly relations among nations, the United Nations shall promote:

• (a) higher standards of living, full employment, and conditions of economic and social progress and development;

• (b) solutions of international economic, social, health, and related problems; and international cultural and educational cooperation; and

• (c) "universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion."

• This text matches the quote in the question exactly.

• Analysis of Article 56: Article 56 contains the pledge of the member states, stating: "All Members pledge themselves to take joint and separate action in co-operation with the Organization for the achievement of the purposes set forth in Article 55."

• Articles 57 and 58 deal with the establishment and coordination of specialized agencies.

• Therefore, Article 55 is the provision that establishes the UN's mandate to promote human rights, making Option (A) the correct choice.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Article 55 of the UN Charter lays down the mandate for the promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, making Option (A) the correct answer.