A UN resolution is a formal expression of the opinion or will of a UN body. They follow a strict format and go through a complex process before being adopted or rejected.
The goal is to adopt a resolution that calls for action to end a conflict, approves a peacekeeping mission or imposes sanctions, all of which are within the Council’s mandate according to the UN Charter. Drafts are negotiated through consultations with the country of concern, other countries and regional groups. Counsellors in the permanent missions to New York who specialise in the issue are often involved as well.
Once a draft is ready, it is circulated to all members for approval. A minimum of nine votes are required for a resolution to be adopted, unless it is blocked by the veto, a privilege reserved for the five permanent members – China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the US.
When a resolution is adopted, it becomes legally binding on all 193 Member States. This is important because, as the UN doesn’t have a standing army and relies instead on its members to effectively police themselves and abide by international law, it must be understood that a resolution cannot just be a suggestion but must be enforced. This is why, for example, experts who spoke with RS argue that it is not enough to simply refer to Chapter 7 of the UN Charter, which grants the Security Council powers to assess and respond to security threats, if a resolution is to be binding on members.