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The United Nations at 50: Environmental protection and development

Author
Birnie P.
Journal/Series
Melbourne University Law Review | Vol. 20; 66 - 100; 35 p.
Date
1995
Source
IUCN (ID: ANA-058732)
Publisher | Place of publication
University of Melbourne Law Review | Parkville, Australia
Language
English
Field of application
International
Subject
Environment gen.
Keyword
Policy/planning International relations/cooperation
Abstract

Environmental protection has been an issue for the UN which was not foreseen when it was established 50 years ago. The UN's mandate to take action in respect of the environment is not clear in its Charter. However, numerous UN organs, specialised agencies and conferences perhaps most significantly the UNEP, have approached this issue from various perspectives. One of the most significant obstacles to action by any of these has been the conflict between the goals of UN members with respect to economic development and environmental protection. Recent reforms and newly-established bodies and instruments await assessment after an appropriate period of time.