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With reference to the United Nations, consider the following statements : 1. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of UN consists of 24 member States. 2. It is elected by a 2/3 majority of The General Assembly for a 3-year term. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2.
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) originally had 18 members, but through subsequent amendments to the UN Charter, its strength was increased to 54 member states, not 24. These seats are allocated based on geographical representation, ensuring diverse global participation.
Statement 2 is correct: Members of ECOSOC are elected by the United Nations General Assembly. According to Article 61 of the UN Charter, a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting is required for election. Each member is elected for a three-year term, and one-third of the total membership retires every year, making it a continuous body with staggered rotations. This ensures both continuity and periodic renewal of the Council's mandate to coordinate the economic and social work of the UN.