SSB LECTURETTE TOPIC NOTES: United Nations Security Council (UNSC): Structure, Powers, Challenges & India’s Role

Fresh SSB batches start around the 1st & 15th of every month.

“The Security Council is the pivot on which the peace of the world turns.”

Introduction

• UNSC is one of six principal organs of the UN.
• Responsible for maintaining international peace and security.
• Can make legally binding decisions: sanctions, military action, peacekeeping.
• Established in 1945; key forum for global conflict resolution.

Composition of UNSC

• Total Members: 15
  • Permanent Members (P5): China, France, Russia, UK, USA — hold veto power.
  • Non-Permanent Members: 10 elected for two-year terms by UNGA, based on geography.

Functions and Powers

• Maintain peace and security through peaceful conflict resolution.
• Impose international sanctions to uphold global stability.
• Authorize military action in severe cases.
• Mediate disputes to prevent escalation.
• Recommend admission of new UN member states.

Veto Power

• P5 members can veto any substantive resolution.
• Intended to ensure unity among major powers.
• Often causes deadlock on sensitive global issues.

Recent Challenges and Criticisms

• Lack of representation for emerging powers like India, Brazil, South Africa.
• Veto power misuse by P5 to block resolutions serving national interests.
• Ineffectiveness in resolving crises (Syria, Gaza, Ukraine).
• Growing demand for reforms in membership and veto limitations.

India and UNSC

• India has served as non-permanent member eight times (latest: 2021–2022).
• Advocates multilateralism, counter-terrorism, and climate action.
• Seeks permanent membership citing population, economy, and peacekeeping contributions.

Way Forward

• Expand UNSC for equitable representation.
• Restrict veto misuse, especially in humanitarian crises.
• Strengthen diplomacy and consensus-building.
• Collaborate with regional bodies like AU and ASEAN for peace efforts.

Conclusion

• UNSC is vital to global peace and order.
• Needs reform to meet modern geopolitical realities.
• A more representative and transparent UNSC can enhance global governance and promote lasting peace.