Page 147 - 100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International_V-Petrovsky_private special edition

Bringing the Concept to Life

Moreover, its impact is not yet properly understood. However, it is obvious
that these new channels of information interchange have considerable influ-
ence оn the opinion and, accordingly, the political behavior of some very
dynamic social strata.

8. In short, the international system in its current state resembles а piano
which is out of tune and makes terrible sounds whatever melody one plays. For
five decades the UN was the world's major tuner. It dealt with all the major
issues which the international соmmunity was facing - реасе keeping and peace
promotion in all aspects, economic and social development, and support of
human rights and democratic institutions. However, today the UN is standing
at а crossroads and most Member States do not know which way the
Organization should bе headed. This period of uncertainty is understandable.
History has shown that it takes several years after major political events before
the new system, new rules and new institutions could bе put in place.
Meanwhile, the Organization needs all the support it саn mobilize to соре with
the problems of the transitional period.

9. Traditionally, the UN was perceived, and in fact has been primarily an
inter-governmental organization. However, if we recall the opening words of
the UN Charter: "We, the Peoples of the United Nations ... ", it will become
obvious that the World Organization is supposed to bе much more than the
centre for agreed actions of its 185 Member States. The UN should bе not only
an organization for politicians and diplomats but should also have links of
communication with all social groups - non-governmental and religious
organizations, labour unions, and the business community.

10. The non-governmental organizations, among which the International
Association of Lions Clubs is the world's largest service organization, well­
known for its unselfish dedication to humanity, are no less equipped to
represent the interests of the peoples' than the governmental bodies. The
United Nations and the non-governmental organizations are vital partners, and
our aim should bе to strengthen and expand this partnership.

11. The formal basis for the cooperation between the UN and the NGOs is
provided for bу Article 71 of the Charter. Ever since the establishment of the
United Nations, а collaborative relationship has been established between the
UN and the NGOs. This cooperation has included provision of experts and
resource personnel; joint sponsorship of technical assistance projects in devel-
oping countries; distribution of information obtained from the United Nations

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