The paper studies the present state of the UN ‘system’ and suggests changes and reforms which might allow it to function in a more systematic and effective manner. This study is the fourth in a sequence analyzing salient problems in the working of the United Nations system and recommending how to equip it better to meet the enormous challenges of a new era. The objective of this particular study is to examine the system as it now is, and to suggest adjustments and modifications which might gradually transform it into the effective mechanism of a future world community. The paper does not, however, include an analysis or recommendations on the strictly peace and security activities of the UN, except to recognize their interconnection with the other work of the UN system and to stress the necessity of dealing with the root causes of instability, violence and insecurity.
