🇬🇧TBB
Chapter 5

The UK and International Institutions

The UN, Commonwealth, NATO, and international relations

Table of Contents

Chapter 5: The UK and International Institutions

The Commonwealth

  • The Commonwealth is "an association of countries that support each other and work together towards shared goals in democracy and development"
  • It is primarily composed of former British Empire member nations
  • Currently has 54 member states
  • Membership is voluntary
  • The Queen/King serves as the ceremonial head of the Commonwealth
  • The organisation has no legislative authority over member countries
  • However, it can suspend membership of countries that do not meet its standards
  • Core principles include democracy, good governance, and the rule of law
  • The Commonwealth Games are held every four years, featuring athletes from member nations

The European Union (EU)

  • Originally established as the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1957 by six Western European nations
  • The UK joined in 1973
  • The EU expanded to include 27 member states (after the UK's departure)
  • "EU law is legally binding in the UK and all the other EU member states" (during UK membership)
  • European legislation takes the form of directives, regulations, or framework decisions

Note: The UK left the European Union on 31 January 2020 (Brexit). The study guide content above reflects the handbook as published, but test-takers should check for the most current edition of the official handbook.

The Council of Europe

  • A separate organisation from the EU (not to be confused with the EU)
  • Encompasses 47 member countries, including the UK
  • Its primary function is to protect and promote human rights
  • It cannot create laws, but establishes conventions and charters
  • Most notably created the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms
  • The European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg enforces the Convention

The United Nations (UN)

  • An international body with over 190 member nations
  • Established after the Second World War to promote international peace and cooperation
  • The UK is one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council
  • The five permanent members are: UK, USA, France, Russia, and China
  • Permanent members hold veto power over Security Council resolutions
  • The Security Council has 15 members in total (5 permanent + 10 rotating)

NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation)

  • A collective defence alliance of European and North American nations
  • The UK is a founding member
  • Members are committed to mutual protection -- an attack on one is considered an attack on all (Article 5)
  • NATO works to maintain peace and security among its members and allies
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