The Security Council on Monday referred the application of the observer State of Palestine for full UN membership to the specialized committee set up to vet new members.
The proposal for the referral, made by Ambassador Vanessa Frazier of Malta, Security Council President for April, received no objections from the body’s 15 members.
“Unless I hear a proposal to the contrary, I shall refer to the Committee of Admission of New Members, the request that renewed consideration be given to the application of the observer State of Palestine, during the month of April 2024,” Ms. Frazier said, referring to Rule 59 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedures on new members.
Ms. Frazier also proposed that the admissions committee, a subsidiary organ of the Security Council, would meet at 3 PM the same day to consider the application. The Committee meetings are held behind closed doors, unless it decides otherwise.
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Prior to the formal referral, the Council met privately to discuss the request submitted by Palestine that its earlier request for membership – made on 23 September 2011 – be reconsidered.
Palestine is a non-member observer State of the UN, the same status as held by the Holy See.
Any application for UN membership is considered by the Security Council, which then forwards it on to the 193-member General Assembly to adopt a resolution for the admission of a Member State.
Security Council recommendation
As per its rules of procedure, the Security Council shall decide whether in its judgement the applicant is committed to peace and able and willing to carry out the obligations contained in the UN Charter and, accordingly, whether to recommend the applicant State for membership.
If the Security Council presents a recommendation, it goes forward to the General Assembly along with a complete record of the deliberations.
If the Security Council does not recommend the applicant State for membership or postpones the consideration of the application, it submits a special report plus record of discussions, to the General Assembly.
Ambassador Vanessa Frazier of Malta, Security Council President for April, chairing the meeting.
Simon Blake is an experienced journalist deeply interested in international affairs and global development. Having spent years reporting on humanitarian issues, he offers a unique perspective in his coverage of United Nations news.
Judging by the Council’s decision to refer the Palestinian membership request to a specialized committee, it seems there is a renewed chance for Palestine to gain full UN membership. I hope the committee will thoroughly review the application and consider Palestine’s aspirations for statehood.
As reported in the article, it’s encouraging to see the Palestinian’s bid for full UN membership progressing further through specialized committee review. This step signifies a vital opportunity for renewed deliberation on the observer State of Palestine’s application, potentially bringing meaningful inclusion and representation. Let’s hope for constructive and fair discussions within the admissions committee.
It is great to see the Palestinians’ UN joining efforts moving forward. I believe that every nation deserves a fair chance to be heard on the global stage, and I support Palestine’s pursuit of full UN membership.
It’s a positive step forward that the Security Council has referred Palestine’s application for full UN membership to the admissions committee. Hopefully, this will lead to renewed consideration and progress towards achieving formal membership status for Palestine.
As a supporter of Palestinian rights, I am glad to see the UN’s steps towards considering their application for full membership. It’s time for the international community to recognize the sovereignty and rights of the Palestinian people.
Does this mean Palestine is closer to becoming a full UN member state now? How long does the admissions committee typically take to review such applications?
Yes, this move certainly brings Palestine closer to achieving full UN membership. The admissions committee usually takes a few weeks to review such applications thoroughly before making a decision.
It’s encouraging to see the Palestinians’ UN joining efforts moving forward. Hopefully, the specialized committee will carefully review their application for full membership and make a fair decision. Progress like this is crucial for the pursuit of peace and stability in the region.
It’s great to see the Palestinians’ UN joining efforts moving forward. The application for full UN membership being referred to the admissions committee shows progress in the right direction. Exciting developments ahead!
It’s great to see progress being made in the Palestinians’ efforts to join the UN. Hopefully, this move will lead to greater recognition and support for their cause on the international stage.
Do you think the specialized committee will approve the application for full UN membership from Palestine?
It is difficult to predict the outcome, but based on past decisions, there is a possibility that the specialized committee will approve the application for full UN membership from Palestine. It will ultimately depend on the discussions and considerations within the committee.
It’s great to see the efforts of the Palestinians moving forward in their pursuit of full UN membership. This step taken by the Security Council shows positive progress in considering the application of the State of Palestine. Let’s hope for a fair and just evaluation of their request.