Functions and Powers of the Security Council

Under the Charter, the functions and powers of the Security Council are as follows:

• to maintain international peace and security in accordance with the principles and purposes of the United Nations;
  
  
• to investigate any dispute or situation which might lead to international friction;
  
  
• to recommend methods of adjusting such disputes or the terms of settlement;
  
  
• to formulate plans for the establishment of a threat to peace or act of aggression and to recommend what action should be taken;
  
  
• to call on Members to apply economic sanctions and other measures not involving the use of force to prevent or stop aggression;
  
  
• to take military action against an aggressor;
  
  
• to recommend the admission of new Members and the terms on which States may become parties to the Statute of the International Court of Justice;
  
  
• to exercise the trusteeship functions of the United Nations in "strategic areas";
  
  
• to recommend to the General Assembly the appointment of the Secretary-General and, together with the Assembly, to elect the Judges of the International Court.