This involves not only reforming the composition and decision-making mechanisms but also re-evaluating the Council’s role in addressing conflicts and promoting peace and security in a way that reflects the interests and perspectives of all member states particularly those that have been marginalised in the past. Over the years, many UN member states have consistently pushed for expansion of the UNSC beyond the current five permanent members, who were major players in World War II. More recently, there has been growing demand to include emerging global powers like Turkey, Germany, and India, as well as increased representation for Africa. There is also a call to reduce the veto power of the P5 to avoid deadlock on important global issues. Despite various reform efforts by the UN, they have been viewed as merely cosmetic by many observers.
Initially designed to promote a global balance of power and avoid unilateral decisions, the veto power granted to the permanent UNSC members has become a tool that primarily benefits the powerful nations. The P5 can strategically use their veto to promote their own national interests and foreign policy goals, highlighting a subtle and systemic continuation of colonial practices.
