United Nations Security Council Resolution 502 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids UN Security CouncilResolution 502 |
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Map of the Falkland Islands
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| Date | 3 April 1982 | |
| Meeting no. | 2,350 | |
| Code | S/RES/502 (Document) | |
| Subject | Falkland Islands | |
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Voting summary
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| Result | Adopted | |
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Permanent members
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Non-permanent members
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United Nations Security Council Resolution 502 was an important decision made by the United Nations Security Council on April 3, 1982. This resolution was about the Falkland Islands, also known as Islas Malvinas. It was passed because Argentina's armed forces had invaded the islands.
The Security Council was very worried about this invasion. They demanded that Argentina and the United Kingdom stop fighting right away. They also told Argentina to pull its forces completely out of the Falkland Islands. The resolution asked both countries to find a peaceful, diplomatic way to solve their disagreement. It also told them not to take any more military actions.
The United Kingdom's representative, Sir Anthony Parsons, suggested this resolution. Ten countries voted for it, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Only one country, Panama, voted against it. Four countries chose not to vote (abstained), like China and the Soviet Union.
Resolution 502 was helpful for the United Kingdom. It allowed them to use their right to self-defense under the United Nations Charter. Many countries supported the UK, including members of the Commonwealth of Nations and the European Economic Community. The European Economic Community even put economic restrictions on Argentina.
What the Resolution Said
This resolution is a formal document. It starts by remembering an earlier statement from April 1, 1982. That statement had asked Argentina and the United Kingdom to avoid using force in the Falkland Islands area.
The Security Council was very upset about the invasion that happened on April 2, 1982. They decided that this invasion meant there was a "breach of the peace" in the region. This means the peace was broken.
The resolution then made three main demands:
- First, it demanded that all fighting stop immediately.
- Second, it demanded that all Argentine forces leave the Falkland Islands right away.
- Third, it asked the governments of Argentina and the United Kingdom to find a peaceful solution. It also told them to respect the rules and goals of the United Nations Charter.
The resolution was approved during the 2350th meeting of the Security Council. As mentioned, 10 countries voted for it, 1 voted against (Panama), and 4 did not vote.
More to Explore
- Argentina–United Kingdom relations
- Falklands War
- Invasion of South Georgia
- United Nations Security Council Resolution 505
