Malaysia calls for UN to challenge, abolish Security Council veto

NEW YORK, September 27 — Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has called for the United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) veto power to be challenged and ultimately abolished, arguing that the current system is riddled with failures. He emphasized that merely expanding the Council's membership would not suffice to rectify its shortcomings, asserting that the veto must be questioned and strongly challenged by every member of the UN General Assembly, especially when dealing with cases of crimes against humanity.

During his national statement at the 81st UN General Assembly's General Debate in New York, Mohamad stressed that Resolution 76/262, which established an accountability channel between the Security Council and the General Assembly, should be fully utilized as a foundation for increased accountability over the use of the veto. He urged the international community to begin immediately working towards reforming the Security Council, emphasizing that merely adding more members would not resolve the body's issues.

The core problem, according to Mohamad, is the veto, which he argues must be dismantled. He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue to prevent paralysis within the United Nations. Mohamad also highlighted the growing lack of trust in the UN, stressing that this issue could only be resolved through tangible actions, such as adhering to international law and ensuring that people worldwide feel that their voices are heard.

The Security Council, comprised of 15 members with five permanent seats and veto authority, is the UN's primary forum for maintaining international peace and security. Mohamad was in New York from September 23 to 27 as part of Malaysia's involvement in the UN General Assembly's 81st session.