THE ROLE OF THE UN SECURITY COUNCIL IN MAINTAINING PEACE

Abstract

The author devoted his research to the role of the UN Security Council at present time and the challenges to its existence as the linchpin of preservation of universal peace, security and stability at the time of transformation of the modern world under the impact of globalization. The research article sheds some light on the process of reforms of the UN Security Council and discussions on this issue in the UN , positions of the permanent members of the SC (“P-5”) and different scenarios of the expansion of the composition of the Security Council (permanent and non-permanent members).In contrast to some optimistic assumptions on the perspectives of the reform the author reinforces a pragmatic approach to the issue. Special emphasis is made on the importance of preserving the exclusive position of permanent members of the SC (“P-5”) as the guarantor of global stability and security. The reform process is closely entwined with another direction of the reform of the SC – strengthening its core functions and strategic role in prevention of international and regional crises. The conclusions and recommendations contain some ideas aimed at strengthening the reform process of the SC and its effectiveness. The SC should be more involved in planning and implementation of the UN peace- keeping operations. The functions of Military Staff Committee should be expanded and the process of consultations within the “P-5” Group should be reviewed with emphasis on taking political decisions on the basis of consensus.