Enumerate the number of permanent members of the Security Council of the UNO.

Hint: There are five principal organs of the United Nations: the General Assembly, the United Nations Security Council, the United Nations Economic and Social Council, the International Court of Justice and the Secretariat. The main responsibility of the Security Council is to maintain international peace and security. When faced with a threat to international peace, the Security Council first explores ways to settle the dispute peacefully. It may send a peacekeeping mission to help the parties maintain the truce.

Complete Step by Step answer: There are five permanent members of the Security Council—USA, Russia, China, the UK and France. The total strength of the Security Council was 11 members which was then increased to 15 in 1965, including the 5 permanent members. Any decision of the Security Council has to be passed by 9 out of the 15 members and this should include all the 5 permanent members. Thus the permanent members have the special veto power to block any decision or resolution from being passed. The Council has the power to pass legally-binding resolutions, to suspend or expel members, to impose economic sanctions and to take military action to maintain or restore peace and security.

Note: The non-permanent members of the Security Council are elected for two years by the General Assembly. The Security Council also partakes in making recommendations to the General Assembly on the appointment of the Secretary-General of the UN and the judges of the International Court of Justice.