France, Sept. 29 -- The United Nations' founding charter, which aimed "to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war", came into effect 80 years ago this month. But as today's members wrap up the annual General Assembly in New York, conflict is more than ever on the agenda, casting doubt over the UN's efficiency.

Fifty countries came together in the aftermath of World War II to sign the UN Charter in June 1945, in San Francisco, and it came into force on 24 October that year.

Current UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has insisted that the Charter "is a promise of peace, dignity and cooperation among nations".

But critics say the organisation has been utterly helpless in stopping the countless conflicts that have broken out...