China and the United Nations

China's Role in the United Nations

UN Membership and Contribution:

Entry into the UN:

• Communist China became a member of the United Nations (UN) in 1971 and holds permanent membership in the UN Security Council, known as one of the P5 (Permanent Five).

Financial Contribution:

• As China's economic stature has grown, its financial contribution to the UN budget has increased. In 2020, China ranked as the second-largest contributor to the UN regular budget, with its assessed contribution amounting to 12 per cent.
• In cases heard in the Jury Court, an unlimited fine may be imposed.

Per Capita Income Disparity:

• Despite having the world's second-largest economy, China's per capita income is relatively low, leading to approximately 100-150 million Chinese citizens living on or below the UN poverty line. This income disparity influences China's contribution compared to the United States.

UN Security Council Influence:

Veto Power and Security Council Role:

• As one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, China holds the power to veto any proposal put forth by the Security Council. This role grants China significant influence in peacekeeping, peacekeeping, and decisions related to international sanctions.

Veto Usage:

• China has exercised its veto power sparingly compared to other permanent members. The preference is often to abstain. However, in 2014, China, along with Russia, used its veto to block a UN resolution advocating the referral of the Syrian crisis to the International Criminal Court, leading to condemnation from other Security Council members.

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China and the United Nations

Global Influence and Responsibilities:

Global Influence Beyond Financial Contribution:

• China's influence in the UN extends beyond financial contributions. Its strategic position in the Security Council and global prominence make it a key player in shaping international policies, particularly those related to peace and security.

International Responsibilities:

• China's international responsibilities are heightened due to its role in the UN Security Council. While contributing significantly, it is acknowledged that China's responsibilities may differ from those of the United States, considering the per capita income disparities within its vast population.

China's role in the United Nations involves financial contributions, a significant position in the Security Council, and global influence. While contributing substantially, China's responsibilities are viewed in the context of per capita income disparities, and its use of veto power is carefully considered in international affairs.