The Charter gives the Security Council the main responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. As the "emergency room" of the UN, it has to be ready to meet any time there is a threat to international peace. When a threat is brought before the Council, it usually first asks the parties to reach agreement by peaceful means. The Council may undertake mediation or set forth principles for a settlement. It may deploy peace-keepers to prevent the outbreak of conflict. If fighting breaks out, the Council tries to secure a cease-fire. It may send peacekeeping missions to troubled areas, with the consent of the parties involved, to reduce tension and keep opposing forces apart. It has the power to enforce its decisions by imposing economic sanctions and by ordering collective military action.
The Council has 15 members. Five of these-China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States-are permanent members. The other 10 are elected by the Assembly for two-year terms. Decisions require nine votes; except in votes on procedural questions, a decision cannot be taken if there is a negative vote by a permanent member.
The Council also makes recommendations to the Assembly on a candidate for Secretary-General and on the admission of new Members to the UN.
From the United Nations Department of Public Information.
