The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six main organs of the United Nations. Under the UN Charter, it has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. It is the only UN body whose decisions are binding on all member states.
Members
The Security Council has 15 members:
- Five permanent members: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. They are often called the P5.
- Ten non permanent members elected by the UN General Assembly for two year terms. Five are elected every year, and seats are shared among regional groups.
Each member has one vote. The presidency of the Council rotates every month among members in English alphabetical order.
What the Council can do
The Council can investigate disputes, recommend ways of settling them, impose sanctions, authorise peacekeeping operations and, in extreme cases, approve the use of force. It also recommends the appointment of the UN Secretary General and the admission of new members to the General Assembly.
Veto power
Decisions on substantive matters need nine votes in favour, and no negative vote from any permanent member. A no vote from any one of the P5 is called a veto and blocks the resolution. Abstaining is not treated as a veto. The veto has been used many times since 1946, and its use is often criticised when the Council fails to act during major crises.
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India and the Security Council
India has served as a non permanent member eight times, most recently in 2021 and 2022. During that term, India chaired the Council in August 2021 and December 2022 and also chaired committees on counter terrorism.
India has long argued for reform of the Council, saying that its structure reflects the world of 1945, not today. India, Brazil, Germany and Japan, known as the G4, support each other’s bids for permanent seats. India points to its population, economy, democratic record and contribution to UN peacekeeping missions as reasons for a permanent seat. Several permanent members have publicly supported India’s bid, as stated in joint statements with India.
Why reform is difficult
Any change in the permanent membership needs an amendment to the UN Charter. That requires approval by two thirds of the General Assembly and ratification by two thirds of member states, including all five permanent members. Intergovernmental negotiations on reform have continued for years without a final text.
Bottom line
The UN Security Council holds great power but its structure has not changed much since 1945. India’s campaign for a permanent seat is part of a wider push to make the Council more representative.
Source / स्रोत: United Nations Security Council, Permanent Mission of India to the UN, Ministry of External Affairs
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