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United States non-participation: The League of Nations was proposed by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson as part of his Fourteen Points for peace after World War I. However, the U.S. Senate refused to ratify the Treaty of Versailles and join the League, largely due to concerns over national sovereignty and potential entanglements in foreign conflicts. The absence of the world's most powerful nation weakened the League's authority and effectiveness.

Limited membership: Although the League had a significant number of member states, it did not include some major powers, including the Soviet Union until 1934, and Germany until 1926. The absence of these influential countries diminished the League's ability to address global conflicts comprehensively.

Lack of enforcement mechanisms: The League lacked strong enforcement mechanisms to compel member states to adhere to its decisions and recommendations. The most significant tool at its disposal was economic sanctions, but these were often ineffective as member states had their own economic interests to consider. Without the ability to enforce its decisions, the League struggled to maintain its credibility and authority.

National self-interests: Member states frequently prioritized their own national interests over collective action. When faced with potential conflicts, many nations chose to pursue their own policies rather than following the League's recommendations. This undermined the League's ability to effectively resolve disputes and prevent conflicts.

Failure to address major conflicts: The League's inability to effectively address and prevent major conflicts, such as the Manchurian Crisis in 1931 and the Abyssinian Crisis in 1935, damaged its reputation and revealed its limitations. These events highlighted the League's inability to enforce its decisions and protect the sovereignty of smaller nations.

Outbreak of World War II: The League's ultimate failure was marked by its inability to prevent the outbreak of World War II in 1939. The organization was unable to effectively deter the aggressive actions of Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Imperial Japan, which led to a global conflict that surpassed the League's capabilities.