Georgetown Public Policy Review

By Carl Ginther

Syria is yet another example of why the Security Council needs to change.  But can it?

It would be a wonderful day in history for thousands, if not millions around the world, if Russia were stripped of its veto powers within the UN Security Council in light of recent events in Syria.  It would be a wonderful day in history for north of a billion people worldwide if India and/or Japan assumed that right.  Perhaps China would even feel greater diplomatic heat and step away from another infamous “non-intervention veto”.  But it was the P5, the victors of World War II, who were bequeathed the throne of supranational public policy and authority, albeit sixty-five years ago.  Many believe this blueprint should be revised for the sake of long-term United Nations Security Council (UNSC) relevance.  The rationale follows that Security Council reform is critical, especially considering the rise of India and the lack of veto-power representation from the Middle East, not to mention Africa, where the most salient world history is being carved out as you read what I offer in this passage.