Ex-UN chief urges Security Council reform to avoid collapse
Speaking at a Security Council session on the role of the next UN secretary-general, Ban said: “The current crisis at the UN stems from multiple causes, but the Security Council's ongoing failure to properly function constitutes the most egregious cause.” He emphasized that the council’s operations require fundamental reinvigoration to restore effectiveness.
Ban highlighted longstanding issues within the council, noting “divisions and disruptive tactics” and the “irresponsible way many states now disregard their obligations.” He specifically criticized permanent members for using their vetoes to protect themselves, allies, and national interests at the expense of accountability. “Without concrete reforms to curb permanent members' arbitrary use and abuse of veto power, a sense of helplessness will likely overcome,” he warned. “Council reform is difficult yet urgent and possible. Without it, the United Nations risks lurching towards either collapse or irrelevance.”
The council is composed of 15 members: five permanent countries—China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US—alongside 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. Permanent members hold veto authority on substantive issues, enabling any one of them to block resolutions.
Ban also proposed that the next secretary-general serve a single seven-year term instead of two five-year terms, arguing that the current system allows permanent members disproportionate influence over reappointment. He stressed that the incoming UN chief will need strong backing from all member states to effectively mediate conflicts and ensure balanced political settlements.
“Member states must support this role and guard against a situation in which only powerful countries dictate political settlements,” Ban said.
The Security Council’s debate on the qualities and responsibilities of the next secretary-general comes as preparations continue for the leadership transition following the end of Antonio Guterres’ second term on Dec. 31, 2026.
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