Q. With Reference to the “United Nations Credentials Committee”, consider the following statements:
1. It is a committee set up by the UN Security Council and works under its supervision.
2. It traditionally meets in March, June and September every year.
3. It assesses the credentials of all UN members before submitting a report to the General Assembly for approval.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 3 only
b) 1 and 3
c) 2 and 3
d) 1 and 2
Correct Answer: a) 3 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 GS Paper
Explanation :
United Nations Credentials Committee
The United Nations Credentials Committee plays a crucial role in the functioning of the UN General Assembly. Contrary to what some might think, it is not a body established by the UN Security Council, but rather by the General Assembly itself. Its main task is to review and verify the credentials of member states’ representatives.
Common Misconceptions about the Credentials Committee
One common misconception is that the Committee operates under the supervision of the Security Council. In fact, it works under the authority of the General Assembly. Another incorrect belief is that it meets regularly in March, June, and September. The Committee does not follow such a predetermined schedule; it meets primarily during the General Assembly’s regular sessions, which typically commence in September, and as needed at other times.
The Role of the Credentials Committee
The primary role of the Credentials Committee is to assess the credentials of all UN member states’ representatives. After thorough examination, it submits a report to the General Assembly. The Assembly then approves these credentials, a necessary step for representatives to participate in its work. This process ensures that all members are properly represented and can engage in the Assembly’s activities.
Source:-United Nations Credentials Committee – Wikipedia
UN General Assembly – Credentials Committee
