The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the five principle organizations of the United Nations, responsible for maintaining international peace and security. UNSC resolutions are binding on all member states. Established on January 17, 1946, the UNSC includes five permanent members (the United States, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, China, and France) who hold veto power, and ten elected non-permanent members.
In situations that may cause a “threat to peace and security,” the UNSC’s first action is to recommend the parties involved try to reach an agreement by peaceful means. The Council may issue ceasefire directives, deploy peacekeeping forces, or take other measures such as imposing economic sanctions, trade embargoes, or authorizing military action.
[Last updated in July of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]