How a State Becomes a UN Member

How a State Becomes a UN Member

Article 4 of the UN Charter states that the UN “is open to all other peace-loving States which accept the obligations contained in the present UN Charter and, in the judgment of the Organization, are able and willing to carry out these obligations.”

A State seeking membership to the UN first submits an application to the Secretary-General. The State also makes a formal declaration, stating that it accepts the obligations of membership as stated in the UN Charter. The SC considers the application. Any recommendation for admission must receive nine affirmative votes of Council members, and no veto or negative vote from any of the five permanent members.

Should the SC recommend the State’s admission to the UN, the recommendation is presented to the GA for consideration. A two-thirds majority vote is necessary for admission. Membership to the UN becomes effective on the date the resolution for admission is adopted.