China's Position As A Permanent Member Of The UNSC
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March 22, 2024
"How did newly formed China end up as a permanent member of the security council of the UN?"
The inclusion of China as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is deeply rooted in the historical context of World War II and the geopolitical landscape that followed. Here's an overview of how newly formed China became a permanent member of the UNSC:
1. Historical Context and World War II:
During World War II, China was one of the major Allies fighting against the Axis powers. Despite being embroiled in a brutal conflict with Japan, China was recognized as one of the Big Four (along with the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom) that were key in defeating the Axis.
2. United Nations Formation:
The United Nations was established in 1945, following the end of World War II, to promote peace and international cooperation. The Security Council was created as one of its main bodies, tasked with maintaining international peace and security.
3. China's Role:
Due to its significant role in World War II and its status as a major power in Asia, China was granted a permanent seat on the Security Council. The intention was to ensure representation from major regions of the world and to acknowledge China's contribution to the war effort against the Axis powers.
4. Representation of China:
Initially, the Republic of China (RoC) occupied the Chinese seat at the UN, including its permanent seat on the Security Council. This was because, at the time of the UN's formation, the RoC was the internationally recognized government of China.
5. Chinese Civil War and Shift in Recognition:
After the Chinese Civil War, the People's Republic of China (PRC) was established in 1949 by the Communist Party, while the RoC government retreated to Taiwan. For several years, there was international debate over which government was the legitimate representative of China.
6. Switch in UN Representation:
In 1971, UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 was passed, recognizing the PRC as "the only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations" and thus transferring the Chinese seat on the Security Council from the RoC to the PRC.
In summary, China's position as a permanent member of the UNSC stems from its major role in World War II and its status as a significant global power. The representation of China in the UN shifted from the RoC to the PRC in 1971, reflecting changes in international recognition and geopolitical realities.
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