Singapore Foreign Minister Calls for UN Veto Reform

Singapore and Malaysia have both called for reforms to limit the use of veto powers in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) amid rising global tensions. Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan emphasized that the increasing application of vetoes by the permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—has hindered the Council's ability to maintain international peace and security. He urged a collective agreement on the future exercise of vetoes during his address at the UNSC, highlighting the need for the UN to adapt to a dangerous global landscape. Similarly, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan stressed that the veto should not obstruct resolutions that uphold international law, particularly regarding Palestine. He expressed strong support for a recent UN General Assembly resolution demanding Israel end its unlawful presence in occupied territories. Both nations advocate for a collaborative approach to reform the UNSC and enhance the effectiveness of multilateral organizations in crisis resolution.