18. I have had occasion to state that the deep political divisions within the international community, especially among the States members of the Security Council, have frequently inhibited the Council’s effectiveness over the past 40 years. The conclusion should not be drawn, how- ever, that since the divisions may well long persist, the Council’s effectiveness will, of necessity, be equally inhi- bited in the future. Profound political differences among Council members have not always prevented effective Security Council action in dealing with crises in the past. 19. The instances of success in truly collective action for the preservation of peace sould be studied for the guidance they can provide to the Council in its future activity. At the same time, the failures of the past should be viewed in the perspective of a world which in the future may be even more heavily armed, and tension even more acute. An ineffective Security Council can, in such a world, be in the interest of no nation. A fully effective Council, pursuing collectively the aims defined in the Charter, would how- ever serve the interests of all. 20. If this view is shared by the Governments represented . here, they may wish to consider individually, bilaterally and multilaterally how and to what extent the collective endeavours of the Council in the interest of ‘peace can be insulated from the differences and disputes that may exist between them. In very immediate terms, there could be 2 value in includiug this question on the agendas of meetings among national leaders that will take place here in New York in connection with the fortieth session of the General Assembly. 21. On this auspicious occasion I wish to express the hope that this commemorative meeting will serve to con- solidate and renew the authority and prestige of the Coun- 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be focused on the United Nations Security Council and its effectiveness in maintaining international peace and security. It highlights the challenges posed by political divisions among member states and suggests ways to overcome these challenges. The text does not mention specific economic, environmental, or social issues, but rather emphasizes the importance of collective action and cooperation in achieving peace and security.

**Category**
International relations, Humanitarian aid and relief