The UN Security Council is a major body which takes key decisions on behalf of the UN. It’s made up of 15 members, has a rotating chair and a schedule of meetings. But there’s a power imbalance. Five members are permanent, and the rest are elected for two-year spells. And five members have a veto – the ability to reject an action. But the other members don’t have this power.
Campaigners for change argue that the set-up of the Security Council reflects a power balance that no longer exists. There are arguments to get rid of the veto, for a change to the permanent members and for a change in the balance of the elected members.
Your session will use current examples of Security Council decisions to explore the actions of key players. As well as what the perceived problems of the body are. This will involve highlighting some Security Council resolutions and some use of the veto. You’ll then think about whether there are other nations which should be given more influence or power within the Security Council. And decide which nations they are and what your reasoning is.