How is the SCO different from the UN?

Today 15 September, the Summit of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which is expected to start in Samarkand, is the theme of the week worldwide.  In addition to discussing the organization’s goals and objectives, many are interested in how it differs from other organizations.  Komil Aripov, head of the Institute of Strategic and Interregional Studies, explained how the SCO differs from other organizations, in particular the United Nations.

"The UN is an international universal organization of a global character.  However, the actual decision-making principle (majority or absolute majority) causes disagreements within this organization.  Therefore, the world community has turned the UN into a unique position of individual economically developed countries, "decision-making centers" This is the main important difference between the SCO and the UN," he said in response to QALAMPIR.UZ's questions.

He said that the main tasks of the SCO are the development of multidisciplinary cooperation in the political, trade, economic, scientific, technical and cultural spheres, as well as in education, energy, transport, tourism, environmental protection and other spheres.  The Organization aims at strengthening peace, security and stability in the region.  This demonstrates the multidisciplinary nature of the tasks to be performed, and the universality of the organization.

However, the main attraction of the SCO lies in the equality of its members, regardless of the level of economic and military development or the international authority achieved.  Under the SCO charter, decisions of the organization are taken by consensus.

He also expressed his reaction to various reports circulating in the international media that the SCO summit in Samarkand might turn into a military force against Western structures.

Of course, in the geopolitical confrontation in the world, there are and will be attempts to seize this economically and militarily powerful organization, which accounts for 22% of the world gross domestic product.  However, the SCO has been, and will remain an organization open to mutual cooperation.

Uzbekistan’s positions and approaches regarding the priorities and prospects of the SCO have always been clear «Uzbekistan considers it expedient to constantly focus on the economic direction of this organization», - said Komil Aripov.

The expert emphasizes that, according to the SCO charter, its main activities are aimed at supporting the comprehensive development and constructive cooperation of the member states, jointly ensuring and maintaining peace, security and stability in the region, Uzbekistan is only an advocate of peace, he added.