U.N. Security Council

The U.N. Security Council is a key part of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Composed of 15 member countries—five are permanent members with veto power (the U.S., U.K., France, Russia, and China), and ten are elected for two-year terms. The Council can authorize peacekeeping missions, impose sanctions, or take military action to address threats or conflicts. It plays a crucial role in diffusing crises, promoting diplomacy, and ensuring global stability, functioning as a central authority for coordinated international responses to security issues.