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United Nations Security Council

Key UN body responsible for maintaining global peace and security through collective decision-making

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Key Insights

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the principal organs of the UN, responsible for ensuring international peace and security. It consists of 15 member states and 5 permanent members, and the permanent members possess veto power on every proposal. The Security Council has authority to impose sanctions, authorise peacekeeping missions, and take collective initiatives to address conflicts. It is a vital forum for addressing urgent international crises and responding to complex geopolitical challenges.


Additional Information

Picture of the Empty UN Security Council: No Changes Were Made. Source / Author: Neptuul https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Neptuul https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:UN-Sicherheitsrat_-_UN_Security_Council_-_New_York_City_-_2014_01_06.jpg License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en

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Pablo Mathis Pablo Mathis obtained a BSc in Security Studies from Leiden University and an MA in War Studies from King's College London. He is currently a MSc(Res) International Relations candidate at the London School of Economics and Political Science. His main areas of interest are international relations theories and small states.

Cite this brief
Mathis, P. (2023). United Nations Security Council. EPIS Insight · International Relations & Diplomacy.
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