The president of the European Council, Charles Michel, urged a reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to enhance its inclusivity, legitimacy, and effectiveness, in an address before the UNSC on Wednesday.

In his speech, Michel highlighted ongoing conflicts in regions such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in maintaining global peace.  In the context of this responsibility he asserted that holding a permanent seat on the Security Council is not merely a “privilege” but a responsibility entrusted to only five nations, designating them as “the guardians of world peace.” He emphasized that certain members are falling short of fulfilling this crucial responsibility, impacting the council’s efficacy in addressing global crises. Furthermore, Michel underscored the European Union’s commitment to peace and security, advocating for a united effort to bring light and hope to a world overshadowed by darkness.

The UNSC, comprising 15 members, with five permanent members holding veto power, plays a pivotal role in international peace and security. However, concerns have been raised regarding the abuse of veto powers, potentially obstructing the Council’s ability to tackle pressing issues effectively. Former UN Assembly President Dennis Francis warned that the escalating use of veto power could paralyze the Council and hinder the UN’s capacity to address critical peace and security concerns. In addition, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb has recently called for substantial reforms within the UNSC, including the abolition of single-seat veto power for permanent members and an increase in the number of permanent seats.

These proposals align with broader calls for reform within the UN system, as evidenced by the recent adoption of the Pact for the Future by the UN General Assembly. The Pact for the Future outlines a series of actions aimed at advancing long-term goals, with a particular focus on restructuring the UNSC to enhance its representativeness and effectiveness. Key proposals include potential restrictions on veto powers and the expansion of the council’s membership to better align with the current global landscape.

Implementing reforms within the UNSC would require amendments to the UN Charter, the foundational document outlining the Council’s composition. Changes would require approval from at least two-thirds of the UN General Assembly and the unanimous consent of all five permanent UNSC members, as stipulated in Chapter 18 of the Charter.