UN's Future in Doubt? Veto Power Paralyses Security Council Amidst Global Crises

• The UN faces major challenges from global crises like the US-Venezuela situation, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and the Gaza humanitarian catastrophe, questioning its ability to maintain peace.
• The UN Security Council, tasked with maintaining international peace and security, is frequently paralysed by the veto power held by its five permanent members (P5).
• The P5's self-serving use of the veto, though politically objectionable, is not legally prohibited and effectively prevents action against major powers or attempts at reform.
• Despite the Security Council's paralysis in great-power conflicts, the UN performs vital functions through its Secretariat and agencies, including peacekeeping, human rights monitoring, and humanitarian aid.
• The article concludes that while deeply flawed, the UN's continued existence is crucial, as losing it would be far worse than its current state.

Why It Matters: UN's P5 veto cripples Security Council, yet its broader work remains indispensable despite flaws.