First Assembly of the League of Nations Convened

November 15th, 1920

November 15th, 1920

First Assembly of the League of Nations Convened
How Long Ago?

104 years, 3 months, 27 days ago

Location

Geneva, Switzerland

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Woodrow Wilson
  • Émile Vandervelde
  • Jan Christian Smuts
  • Arthur Balfour
Links & References
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First Assembly of the League of Nations Convened

In Geneva, Switzerland, representatives from 41 nations gathered for the inaugural assembly of the League of Nations. This assembly marked a significant step in international diplomacy, aiming to promote peace and cooperation among nations after the devastation of World War I. Delegates discussed various issues, including disarmament and preventing future conflicts, establishing protocols for future meetings and decisions.

41 nations participated in the first assembly.

Focus on disarmament and preventing future wars.

Established regular meetings for collective diplomacy.

Influenced future international organizations' creation.

What Happened?

The first assembly of the League of Nations convened in Geneva, Switzerland, with the participation of representatives from 41 member countries. The assembly was a product of the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I and aimed to prevent future conflicts. The League of Nations was established to foster international cooperation and to provide a forum for resolving disputes diplomatically rather than through warfare. The assembly focused on critical topics such as disarmament, improving global welfare, and establishing rules for the conduct of nations.

During this historic gathering, delegates expressed their visions for international peace and collaboration. The assembly featured discussions on social issues, such as the impact of war on civilian populations and the need for health and social reform. Notable figures such as Émile Vandervelde and Jan Christian Smuts played crucial roles in promoting various agendas aimed at creating a safer world. The assembly concluded with a resolution to hold regular meetings and organize committees to focus on specific global issues.

This inaugural meeting laid the groundwork for future assemblies and set a precedent for international governance, reinforcing the idea that collective security would sustain peace. Although the League ultimately faced criticism and challenges, including the absence of major powers like the United States, it nonetheless represented a significant evolution in international relations, marking a shift toward multilateralism in addressing global problems.

Why Does it Matter?

The establishment of the League of Nations represented a pivotal moment in the pursuit of global peace after the harrowing effects of World War I. It was one of the first attempts at creating an international organization dedicated to collective security and diplomatic dialogue. The principles and frameworks set forth by the League influenced later organizations, including the United Nations, which continues to play a critical role in international relations today.

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