Topic: 2025 – Responsibility of International Organizations
Country: Bangladesh
Delegate Name: DeeDee Cairns
Legal
Responsibility of International Organizations
Bangladesh
DeeDee Cairns
Forest Hills Northern
International organizations now play an increasingly influential role in global governance, from peacekeeping to economic development. As their responsibilities expand, so does the need for a clear and fair methods on governing their legal accountability. The International Law Commission’s 2011 Draft Articles on the Responsibility of International Organizations state that international organizations, like states, can be held responsible when their actions amount to an internationally wrongful act and can be legally attributed to the organization as an independent entity. This idea now plays a large role in discussions within the UN Sixth Committee, where Member States review and debate the developing legal duties of both states and international organizations.
For Bangladesh, the growing complexity of international operations- whether in peacekeeping mandates, humanitarian missions, or financial and development programs- shows the necessity of strengthening accountability without compromising the independence and operational capacity of these organizations. The Draft Articles make clear that responsibility may arise not only from the organization’s own actions but also in situations where a member state directs or coerces the organization. These provisions show the shared and sometimes overlapping responsibilities that must be addressed through careful legal interpretation.
Bangladesh recognizes the value of established judicial mechanisms, particularly the International Court of Justice, whose advisory opinions have guided the development of legal norms towards international organizations. However, judicial opinions alone cannot resolve the challenges faced by victims seeking reforms. Bangladesh therefore supports discussion within on strengthening internal review processes and encouraging organizations to use transparent standards consistent with the Draft Articles.
At the same time, Bangladesh emphasizes that any system of responsibility must allow international organizations- especially the United Nations- to continue carrying out their work in peace and security. A balanced approach is necessary, one that supports accountability while ensuring organizations can operate effectively and without unnecessary political influence. Bangladesh remains committed to working with other Member States to strengthen these principles promote fair and practical mechanisms that uphold justice and the integrity of the UN.
