UNSCR

UNSCR stands for United Nations Security Council Resolution. It refers to formal decisions adopted by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), the body responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Resolutions address a wide range of issues, including conflict resolution, sanctions, arms control, humanitarian access, peacekeeping mandates, and the establishment or modification of international oversight or investigative mechanisms. They are the primary means by which the UNSC exercises its authority under the UN Charter.

Legal status and scope. Security Council resolutions can be binding or non-binding depending on their legal basis. Resolutions adopted under Chapter VII of the UN Charter are generally binding on all UN member states and may authorize measures such as sanctions or the use of force to enforce compliance. Resolutions under Chapter VI or other chapters are typically considered recommendations or non-binding guidelines, aimed at resolving disputes and encouraging peaceful settlement rather than imposing enforcement action.

Adoption process. For a resolution to pass, it must receive at least nine votes in favor and face no veto from any of the five permanent members of the Council. Abstentions do not block adoption, but a veto by any permanent member prevents a resolution from becoming law.

Notable uses. UNSCRs have sanctioned regimes, established no-fly zones, or authorized military intervention in various conflicts. Examples include Resolution 678 (1990), which authorized member states to use force against Iraq if needed; Resolution 661 (1990), imposing comprehensive sanctions on Iraq; Resolution 1244 (1999), establishing international administration in Kosovo; Resolution 1973 (2011), authorizing a no-fly zone over Libya; and Resolution 2254 (2015), guiding a political process in Syria.

See also. United Nations Charter, International law, Peacekeeping.