Statement by Latvia for the Intergovernmental negotiations on the Question of the Veto
Distinguished Co-Chairs,
The credibility of the Security Council and of the multilateral system as a whole depends on our ability to make tangible progress, in particular on the question of the veto.
In this context, I would like to make three points.
First, the use of the veto must be in line with the responsibilities entrusted to the Security Council and its permanent members.
The Council bears the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, and the veto was never intended to obstruct that mandate. Its exercise must therefore support the purposes and principles of the Charter, not shield national interests or prevent action in the face of clear threats to peace. When the use of veto is not consistent with these responsibilities, it undermines the Council’s credibility and its ability to fulfil its core functions. Responsible use of the veto is thus an essential element of the Council’s duty under the Charter.
Second, greater transparency and accountability for the use of the veto are essential to strengthening trust in the Security Council’s work.
Improving Council’s working methods remains an important and achievable dimension of reform. Transparency, inclusivity and predictability strengthen both the effectiveness and the credibility of the Council. In particular, enhanced transparency around decision-making, including the use of the veto, together with the meaningful participation of affected States under Rule 37, brings the Council closer to the wider UN membership. In this regard, initiatives aimed at enhancing accountability for the use of the veto play a vital contribution to greater transparency and responsibility.
Third, the UN Charter already provides binding legal limits on the Council’s decision-making, which must be respected and applied.
Article 27(3) of the Charter clearly states that a party to a dispute shall abstain from voting. Yet this provision has hardly ever been applied. This is not a political choice, but a legal obligation, that must be interpreted in light of the principle of good faith outlined in Article 2(2) of the Charter. Its consistent application is essential to ensure impartiality and safeguard the credibility of the Council’s decisions. Respect for this provision is a concrete and immediate step toward more responsible use of the veto.
Colleagues,
The IGN process has generated a wide range of proposals and increasing convergence on key elements. What is needed now, is renewed urgency and political will to move from positions to text-based negotiations. Latvia remains committed to engaging constructively with all Member States to advance a reform that is comprehensive, balanced and firmly anchored in the UN Charter.
I thank you!