Which of the following options does not constitute the main objectives of the United Nations?

Step 1: Analyze the question We are asked which option is NOT a main objective of the United Nations. So we look for the option that goes against the UN's purposes.

Step 2: Recall the concept The UN Charter (1945), Article 1, lists the main purposes of the UN:

1. To maintain international peace and security.
2. To develop friendly relations among nations, based on respect for equal rights and self-determination of peoples.
3. To achieve international cooperation in solving economic, social, cultural and humanitarian problems, and in promoting respect for human rights.
4. To be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.

The UN works to promote the well-being of the world's peoples (better standards of living, health, development, and so on).

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Maintenance of international peace and security. This is the primary objective of the UN, so it is an objective.
• B. Promotion of the well-being of the peoples of the world. This is an objective, pursued through agencies like UNESCO, WHO and UNICEF.
• C. International cooperation. This is an objective, as stated in Article 1.
• D. The use of force to comply with its provisions. This is not an objective. The UN Charter generally prohibits the threat or use of force (Article 2(4)). Force is permitted only as a last resort, such as enforcement action authorized by the Security Council under Chapter VII, or in self-defence. It is a means used in exceptional cases, not a main objective, and the UN aims to settle disputes peacefully.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D.

Exam tip: In "which is NOT" questions on UN objectives, look for words like "force," "war," or "domination." The UN's goals revolve around peace, cooperation, human rights and development.