Russia Rejected French Proposal to Limit UN Veto

The veto power of the permanent members of the United Nation’s Security Council once again came into debate as Russia dismissed a proposal of France asking UNSC permanent members to limit the use of the veto power at least in cases involving mass atrocities that demands action.

The idea behind the proposal was that the permanent members of the UNSC should not use the veto power in the case where mass atrocities are carried out and the situation demands quick action by the UN. This would benefit the victims as UN could extend quick help without making politics on the issue.

France’s idea was welcomed by some 70 non-veto wielding member-states at the United Nations; however, China and the United States have also expressed reservations.

Why did Russia dissmiss the proposal?

Russian Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said that it would oppose the proposal as it is not a workable proposition.

He argued that declaring mass atrocities could become a political tool, and raised questions about who would be empowered to make that determination.

What is UNSC?

• The United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
• It is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations
• UNSC is charged with the maintenance of international peace and security as well as accepting new members to the United Nations and approving any changes to its United Nations Charter.
• Critics of the council often describe it as an undemocratic international body, and argue it fails its principal task, mainly because of the veto power granted to only five of its members — Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, and the United States.
• Its powers include the establishment of peacekeeping operations, the establishment of international sanctions, and the authorization of military action through Security Council resolutions.
• It is the only UN body with the authority to issue binding resolutions to member states.
• The Security Council held its first session on 17 January 1946.

What is the Veto Power of the UNSC Permanent Members

• The United Nations Security Council “power of veto” refers to the veto power wielded solely by the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, and United States)
• The veto power enables these five nations to prevent the adoption of any “substantive” resolution, as well as decide which issues fall under “substantive” title.

Critic’s View

• This de-facto control over the UN Security Council by the five nations is seen by critics, since its creation in 1945, as the most undemocratic character of the UN.
• Critics also note the veto power as a main cause for most international inaction on war crimes and crimes against humanity.