What duty does the UN Charter assign to the United Nations?

The UN Charter explicitly outlines the purpose and responsibilities of the United Nations, placing a significant emphasis on the promotion of human rights. Article 1 of the Charter states that one of the UN's primary purposes is to develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, and to promote and encourage respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all.

This foundational aim establishes the role of the UN as not only a mediating force in international relations but also as an advocate for human rights globally. The organization has since developed various mechanisms and bodies, such as the Human Rights Council and numerous treaties, to further this mission. Promoting universal respect for human rights aligns directly with the Charter's goals and illustrates the UN's commitment to creating a world where fundamental freedoms are upheld for all people.

While the United Nations does engage in mediation of disputes and humanitarian efforts, these functions are part of its broader mandate and not specifically highlighted in the same foundational way as the promotion of human rights. Additionally, enforcement of member states' treaties typically falls to individual nations or specific treaty organizations, rather than being a primary duty of the UN itself.