GENEVA — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez urged the United Nations to overhaul its Security Council on 23 September 2026, calling for the abolition of the permanent veto power and condemning the Gaza conflict as genocide. The call comes amid a long‑standing debate over the council’s composition and the perceived imbalance of power among the five permanent members.
Calls for Reform Echo Long‑Standing Debate
The Security Council, established in 1945, has 15 members, five of which—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States—hold veto authority. Critics argue that the veto system entrenches the interests of a small group of states and hampers collective action on global crises. Over the past decade, several proposals have been tabled at the General Assembly, including expanding the number of permanent seats and limiting veto use to matters of war and peace.
Spain’s Position and Gaza Condemnation
In a statement released by the Spanish government, Sanchez described the current arrangement as “outdated” and called for a “comprehensive reform” that would make the council more representative of the contemporary international community. He also condemned the violence in Gaza, describing it as a “genocide” and urging the UN to take decisive action.
The call was reported by several international outlets, including aa.com.tr and TRT World, which noted that Sanchez’s remarks were part of a broader diplomatic effort to pressure the permanent members to accept reforms. The Spanish Prime Minister’s speech was delivered during a UN briefing in Geneva, where he highlighted the need for the council to reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century.
Educational Simulation Highlights Reform Challenges
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) has long used simulations to illustrate the complexities of Security Council decision‑making. A CFR simulation released on 23 September 2026 demonstrates how veto power can stall resolutions and how a more inclusive council might function. While the simulation is an educational tool rather than a policy proposal, it underscores the practical difficulties that reform advocates face.
Broader Context and Future Prospects
Previous attempts to reform the council have stalled, largely due to the veto power of the permanent members. The United States and Russia have historically resisted changes that would dilute their influence, while other nations argue that the council’s legitimacy depends on a broader representation.
Despite the lack of consensus, Sanchez’s remarks have added momentum to the reform debate. The Spanish government has indicated that it will lobby other European Union members to support a proposal that expands the council’s membership and limits veto use to matters of war and peace. The UN General Assembly is scheduled to review reform proposals in early 2027.
In the meantime, the international community continues to grapple with the council’s role in addressing crises such as the Gaza conflict, climate change, and global health emergencies. The call for reform by Spain’s prime minister reflects a growing sentiment that the Security Council must evolve to meet contemporary challenges.
