The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) was established in 1945 under the UN Charter as the primary body responsible for maintaining international peace and security. With 15 members, it comprises five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) who possess veto power, and 10 elected non-permanent members serving two-year terms.

The UNSC’s main roles include preventing conflict through diplomatic measures, imposing sanctions, authorizing military action, and addressing threats to international peace. Its powers are unique, as it can take binding decisions on all member states. The UNSC has played a critical role in addressing major global crises, such as conflicts in the Middle East, the Korean War, and issues related to nuclear proliferation. However, the Council’s effectiveness has been a topic of debate due to the veto power held by the permanent members, leading to calls for reform to better represent the geopolitical realities of the 21st century.