How can I apply for a membership in the United Nations or other international organizations?

To apply for membership in the United Nations or other international organizations, the process and requirements can vary, but here is a general overview for the United Nations and some common principles for other international organizations.

United Nations Membership

To become a member of the United Nations, a state must follow these steps:

1. Submission of Application:

   • The state must submit an application to the Secretary-General of the United Nations. This application should include a formal instrument declaring that the state accepts the obligations contained in the UN Charter14.

2. Notification:

   • The Secretary-General will send a copy of the application to the General Assembly or to the members of the United Nations if the Assembly is not in session14.

3. Security Council Recommendation:

   • The application must be recommended by the Security Council. If the Security Council recommends the applicant state for membership, the General Assembly will then consider the application14.

4. General Assembly Decision:

   • The General Assembly will decide on the application by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting. The General Assembly must determine if the applicant state is a peace-loving state and is able and willing to carry out the obligations contained in the UN Charter14.

5. Notification of Decision:

   • The Secretary-General will inform the applicant state of the decision made by the General Assembly. If the application is approved, membership becomes effective on the date the General Assembly makes its decision14.

Other International Organizations

For other international organizations, the process can differ significantly based on the organization's specific rules and criteria:

1. Regional Organizations:

   • Organizations like the European Union, African Union, or Organization of American States have membership criteria based on geographical location and often require adherence to specific treaties or agreements. For example, to join the European Union, a country must meet the Copenhagen criteria, which include stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and respect for and protection of minorities5.

2. Specialized Agencies:

   • Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), World Trade Organization (WTO), or International Monetary Fund (IMF) have their own membership criteria. Typically, these involve signing the relevant treaty or agreement and meeting specific requirements outlined by the organization. For instance, to join the WTO, a country must negotiate its terms of accession with existing WTO members5.

3. Cultural, Linguistic, or Economic Organizations:

   • Organizations like the Commonwealth of Nations, Arab League, or Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have membership criteria based on cultural, linguistic, ethnic, or economic ties. For example, to join the Commonwealth of Nations, a country typically needs to have historical ties to the British Empire2.

In general, applying for membership in any international organization involves:

• Meeting the specific eligibility criteria set by the organization.
• Submitting an application or accession request.
• Going through a review or negotiation process with existing members.
• Obtaining approval or recommendation from the relevant governing bodies of the organization.

Each organization has its unique procedures and requirements, so it is essential to consult the specific rules and guidelines of the organization you are interested in joining.