Former UN chief calls for Security Council reform to stave off collapse risk

ISTANBUL

Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday called for fundamental reform of the Security Council, warning that the organization risks "collapse or irrelevance" unless changes are made to prevent veto abuse.

"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," Ban said at a Security Council meeting to discuss the role of the next UN chief.

He said the council's operations must be fundamentally reformed and reinvigorated.

Ban added that the council has long been plagued by "divisions and disruptive tactics," but the "irresponsible way many states now disregard their obligations is especially concerning."

He said some countries "regularly undermine" the UN's mandate "through their use of the veto to shield themselves, their allies, and their practices from accountability."

Without concrete reforms to curb permanent members' arbitrary use and abuse of veto power, a "sense of helplessness will likely overcome," Ban warned, adding: "Council reform is difficult yet urgent and possible. Without it, the United Nations risks lurching towards either collapse or irrelevance."

The council is made up of 15 countries, with five permanent members, including China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US, and 10 non-permanent members elected to two-year terms.

Permanent members hold veto power on non-procedural issues, allowing any single member to block a resolution.

- Renewed commitment needed

Ban also suggested that the next secretary-general be appointed for a single seven-year term rather than two five-year terms, arguing that the current system relies on permanent members for reappointment.

He stressed that whoever is chosen as the next chief will need a renewed commitment from all member states to support the secretary-general's role in conflict resolution.

"Member states must support this role and guard against a situation in which only powerful countries dictate political settlements," Ban said.

The Security Council held an open debate on the role and qualities of the next UN chief, who will take office after current Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' second term ends on Dec. 31, 2026.