FUNCTIONS OF SECURITY COUNCIL

1. Maintaining International Peace and Security

The primary responsibility of the Security Council is to uphold global peace and security. It responds to conflicts that threaten international stability by taking measures such as deploying peacekeeping forces, initiating ceasefire agreements, or authorizing military intervention. The Council acts as a global watchdog, ensuring that disputes between nations do not escalate into full-scale wars.

2. Investigating Disputes

When tensions arise between countries, the Security Council has the authority to investigate the root causes of the conflict. It gathers information, consults with the parties involved, and assesses whether the situation poses a threat to peace. This investigative role helps the Council make informed decisions about how to address the issue diplomatically or otherwise.

3. Recommending Settlement Methods

The Council encourages peaceful resolution of disputes by recommending negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or judicial settlement. These recommendations are aimed at de-escalating tensions and fostering dialogue between conflicting parties. While not binding, such suggestions carry significant diplomatic weight and often guide international efforts toward resolution.

4. Regulating Armaments

To prevent the outbreak of armed conflict, the Security Council promotes arms control and disarmament. It supports initiatives to limit the spread of weapons, especially weapons of mass destruction. By encouraging transparency and cooperation among nations, the Council contributes to global efforts to reduce the risk of militarization and arms races.

5. Determining Threats and Aggression

The Council has the authority to determine when a situation constitutes a threat to peace, a breach of peace, or an act of aggression. Once such a determination is made, it can take appropriate actions, including sanctions or military intervention. This function allows the Council to act decisively in the face of international crises.

6. Imposing Sanctions

As a non-military tool, the Security Council can impose sanctions on states or entities that threaten peace. These may include economic restrictions, travel bans, or arms embargoes. Sanctions are designed to pressure the offending party into complying with international norms without resorting to armed conflict.

7. Authorizing Military Action

When peaceful means fail, the Council can authorize the use of force to restore peace and security. This may involve multinational coalitions or UN-led military operations. Such actions are taken under Chapter VII of the UN Charter and are considered a last resort after all diplomatic options have been exhausted.

8. Admitting New Members

The Security Council plays a role in expanding the United Nations by recommending the admission of new member states. A country seeking membership must first be approved by the Council before the General Assembly votes on its inclusion. This ensures that new members align with the principles of the UN Charter.

9. Appointing the Secretary-General

The Council recommends a candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General, who serves as the organization’s chief administrative officer. This recommendation is then approved by the General Assembly. The selection process reflects the Council’s influence in shaping the leadership and direction of the UN.

10. Trusteeship Responsibilities

Although the Trusteeship Council is now inactive, the Security Council was once responsible for overseeing trust territories—regions transitioning from colonial rule to independence. It ensured that these territories were governed in a way that promoted self-determination and development, aligning with the broader goals of decolonization and human rights