Notes on Contemporary Global Governance

Introduction to Global Governance

Definition of Governance: Refers to the frameworks and processes by which entities (countries, organizations) establish order and make decisions.
Global Governance: Pertains to the international systems that facilitate cooperation and coordination among countries.
- Symbolized by a round table with representatives from each country, indicating connectivity and relationships.

Example: President Duterte's refusal to acknowledge the International Court of Justice's investigation into extrajudicial killings in the Philippines.
- Claim of sovereignty: The Philippines has its own judicial system and should not be interfered with by external entities.
Despite sovereignty, the Philippines is a signatory to international organizations like the United Nations (UN).

Purpose: To maintain peace and order across nations.
Components of Global Governance:
- Involves institutions, policies, norms, and procedures that help states respond to global challenges.
- Aims for predictability, stability, and order.

Territorial Conflicts: Example of ongoing disputes between the Philippines and China regarding territories.
- Recognition of power dynamics: China as a military power presents challenges for smaller nations like the Philippines.

International Organizations: Such as the UN, which facilitate global governance by promoting cooperation among member states.
- World Health Organization (WHO): An example of an organization providing guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Classification of powers includes the ability to spread ideas, establish global norms, and provide support (e.g., for refugees).
Pros and Cons of International Organizations:
- Positive: Establishment of global standards (e.g., health guidelines during pandemics).
- Negative: Challenges regarding sovereignty and external interference.

Foundation: Established on October 24, 1945, after World War II in San Francisco, USA.
- Coined by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Key Facts:
- UN Charter signed on June 26, 1945, with 50 founding member states.
- Current membership: 193 member states.
Secretary-General: Antonio Guterres (since January 1, 2017).

General Assembly: Main deliberative and policy-making body; consists of all member states.
Security Council: Most powerful organ of the UN, consisting of 15 members (5 permanent: USA, UK, France, Russia, China; 10 elected).
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): Central body for policy coordination and recommendations on social and environmental issues.
International Court of Justice: Deals with legal disputes between states; controversial in cases involving human rights violations.
Trusteeship Council: Established to oversee trust territories.
Secretariat: Administrative body, led by the Secretary-General with 10,000 staff members.

The lecture emphasized the critical role of international organizations like the UN in global governance, addressing issues of sovereignty, peace, stability, and cooperation among nations.
Importance of understanding both the advantages and challenges presented by global governance in contemporary international relations.