Background: The UN Security Council Veto

The United Nations Security ⁢Council is comprised of‍ 15 members: five permanent members – China, France,Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – and ten non-permanent members elected for ⁤two-year terms. Each permanent member holds veto power, meaning any one of them can block a resolution, even if it has the support of the other ⁢14 members.

This veto power was established ⁢in the UN Charter in 1945, intended to reflect the post-World War II power dynamics. Though, it has been‌ a source of controversy⁣ ever as, frequently ‍enough criticized for hindering the Council’s⁢ ability to respond effectively to international⁣ crises. The Council on Foreign Relations maintains a conflict tracker ‍illustrating areas where Security Council action has been blocked‍ or delayed.

Singapore’s Position and Concerns

Singapore’s Foreign ‌Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, articulated Singapore’s concerns during ⁤his address to the UN General‌ Assembly on September 28, ⁢2025, as ‌reported by ‌ Channel News Asia. He specifically called for restricting the “cynical use of veto rights” by ⁤the P5.

Balakrishnan’s statement reflects a growing‌ sentiment among many UN member states that the veto power is undemocratic and allows permanent members to prioritize their national interests over collective security. Singapore has consistently advocated for a more ⁣inclusive and representative UN system.

According to Detik.com, Singapore believes reforms are ⁤necessary ⁤to make the UN‍ more effective⁤ in addressing increasingly widespread conflicts.

Ancient Use of the Veto and ​Recent Examples

The veto ‍has been used frequently throughout the UN’s history. The Security Council Report provides a comprehensive ‍database of vetoes cast as ‌1945. Here’