Central Idea

A recent UN resolution vote, where 153 countries voted in favor and 10 against, including the USA’s support for Israel, underscores the influence of a few nations in global decisions.
This voting pattern brings into focus the veto powers within the UN Security Council (UNSC) and their persistence for over seven decades.

What is the Veto Power in the UNSC?

Exclusive Membership: The UNSC comprises five permanent members (P5) – the USA, UK, France, Russia, and China – along with 10 non-permanent members.
Power of Resolutions: Unlike the General Assembly, resolutions passed by the UNSC are legally binding.
Veto Mechanism: Any P5 member can veto a resolution, blocking its adoption even with the required majority support.

Post-WWII Context: The P5, instrumental in forming the UN after World War II, were granted special rights, including veto power, as recognition of their role.
Strategic Necessity: The veto was considered vital to ensure the participation of these major powers in global peacekeeping efforts.

Foundational Discussions: The structure of veto power was developed during key meetings like the Dumbarton Oaks and Yalta Conferences.
FDR’s Influence: President Franklin D. Roosevelt envisioned the UN as a post-war peacekeeping body, with the ‘Four Policemen’ (USA, USSR, UK, and China) at its core.
USA’s Diplomatic Efforts: The United States employed strategies, including intelligence, to secure veto power in the UN Charter.

Global Dissatisfaction: The exclusive nature of veto power has been a point of contention for many countries.
Resistance to Change: Attempts to expand the P5 or modify veto rights have been largely unsuccessful due to the vested interests of the permanent members.
Acknowledging Changes: The increase in non-permanent UNSC members in 1965 was a nod to the changing international environment.
Reforms agenda: Proposals include making all 15 seats temporary with five-year terms, encouraging open competition for seats, and imposing lobbying and term limits.

Continued Discussions: The use of veto power in the UNSC remains a contentious issue, reflecting the complex nature of global politics.
Adapting to Modern Times: As the world’s political landscape evolves, there may be growing pressure to reform the UNSC’s structure and veto mechanism to better align with the current global order.