The General Assembly consists of all members of the UN. It may discuss any questions or matters within the scope of the UN Charter or relating to the powers and functions of any organ provided for in the Charter. It may make recommendations to UN members or the Security Council or both on any such questions or matters except disputes or situations in respect of which the Security Council is currently exercising its functions.

General Assembly decisions on important questions are made by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting, and on other questions by a simple majority. Categories of questions requiring a two-thirds majority are listed in article 18 of the Charter. This article further provides that decisions on other questions, including the determination of additional categories of questions to be decided by a two-thirds majority, shall be made by a simple majority.

The General Assembly receives and considers reports from the other organs of the UN. It elects the 10 non-permanent members of the Security Council and the 54 members of the Economic and Social Council. Together with the Security Council, but voting independently, it elects the members of the International Court of Justice. It also appoints the Secretary-General on the recommendation of the Security Council.