A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL AS THE PEACE KEEPING BODY OF UNITED NATIONS ORGANISATION
AUTHOR – MS. NUPUR SANJAKUMAR BORA, STUDENT AT DES’s SHRI. NAVALMAL FIRODIA LAW COLLEGE, PUNE
BEST CITATION – MS. NUPUR SANJAKUMAR BORA, A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL AS THE PEACE KEEPING BODY OF UNITED NATIONS ORGANISATION, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 4 (4) OF 2024, PG. 103-108, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.
Abstract
In the tumult of global strife, the United Nations Security Council emerges as a steadfast guardian of international peace and security, its origins dating back to the post-World War II era in 1945. Over time, it has evolved into a pivotal institution, employing diplomatic, economic, and, when necessary, military measures to uphold tranquillity amidst dynamic security landscapes. However, enduring challenges persist, including entrenched veto dynamics among its permanent members and resource constraints amidst emergent threats like terrorism and cyber warfare. Comprising fifteen member states, including five with veto power, the Security Council deliberates on conflicts, sanctions and peacekeeping missions worldwide, notwithstanding persistent criticisms. Central to its efficacy is the question: Does the Council’s structure and decision-making process impede or bolster its effectiveness in contemporary peacekeeping endeavours? One hypothesis suggests that the presence of veto power may exacerbate gridlock and inefficiency, hindering the Council’s agility in addressing evolving global threats and conflicts. Potential reforms to fortify the Council’s effectiveness include revaluating the veto power system to improve impasses, expanding membership for broader representation and enhancing transparency in decision-making. Strengthening collaboration with regional entities and expanding early intervention capacities emerge as strategies to enhance the Council’s role in global peacekeeping. This research endeavours to critically assess the Security Council’s effectiveness by examining its historical trajectory and decision-making mechanisms, particularly scrutinizing the implications of veto power. Through comprehensive case studies, the study aims to gauge the Council’s efficacy in resolving conflicts and sustaining international peace, offering insights into potential avenues for reform to bolster its capacity as a pivotal peacekeeping body on the world stage.
Key Words – Decision making process, Peace-making Body, United Nations Security Council, Veto Power, World War II.