Security Council

The Security Council held its first session on 17 January 1946 at Church House, London. Up until today the five permanent members of the Security Council are China, France, Russian Federation, United Kingdom and USA. The members of the Security Council meet at UN headquarters in New York City.

Under the United Nations Charter, the main function of the Security Council is to maintain international peace and security in accordance with the principles and purposes of the United Nations. Its powers, exercised by resolutions, include the establishment of peacekeeping operations, the establishment of international sanctions, and the authorization of military action. The following pages provide information about the duties, explain the structure and the Council’s mission within the global community.