List of members of the United Nations Security Council

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UNSC 2023

UN regional groups

Security Council Non-Members

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN), charged with ensuring international peace and security, accepting new members to the United Nations, and approving any changes to its Charter. Its powers include the establishment of peacekeeping operations, the establishment of international sanctions, and the authorization of military action through resolutions; it is the only UN body with the authority to issue binding resolutions to member states.

The Security Council consists of fifteen members. Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, and the United States—the council's five permanent members—have the power to veto any substantive resolution. This reflects the power structure that existed at the end of World War II when the UN was established. In addition to these five, ten non-permanent members are elected on a regional basis to serve two-year terms. The presidency of the Security Council rotates monthly among its members.

Members of the United Nations Security Council

The membership of the UNSC is divided into two categories: permanent members and non-permanent members. As of the last update, the permanent members, often referred to as the "P5", include:

• China
• France
• Russia
• United Kingdom
• United States

The ten non-permanent members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms starting on January 1st, with five replaced each year. To ensure geographical diversity, seats are allocated as follows: three for Africa, two for Asia-Pacific states, one for Eastern Europe, two for Latin America and the Caribbean, and two for Western Europe and other states.

Current Non-Permanent Members

Given the rotating nature of the non-permanent membership, the list of current non-permanent members is subject to annual change. Members are elected for their commitment to peace and security, as well as their willingness to contribute to the council's work.

Functions and Powers

The UNSC is tasked with maintaining international peace and security. Its functions and powers include the deployment of peacekeeping forces, the establishment of international sanctions, and the authorization of military action. It can also recommend the admission of new UN members and approve changes to the UN Charter.

Decision Making

Decisions on substantive matters require nine votes out of fifteen, including the concurring votes of all five permanent members, reflecting the principle of great power unanimity. This is often referred to as the "veto" power. Decisions on procedural matters require only a simple majority.

Criticism and Reform

The UNSC has faced criticism for its structure, particularly the veto power of the permanent members, which can prevent action even in the face of significant international support. There have been calls for reform, including proposals to expand the number of permanent members to include countries from regions currently underrepresented.

See Also

• United Nations General Assembly
• Peacekeeping
• International sanctions
• Veto power in the United Nations Security Council