On why Canada should seek a seat on the U.N. Security Council:
Why should Canada seek a seat on the Security Council? Asking this question is like asking "Why should Canada have a foreign policy?" For most states, the only way to achieve their foreign policy goals is through trying to influence other states to accept their point of view. The UN Security Council is a uniquely influential body in the structure of the international order. The product of the victors of war, it has the power, if a breach of international peace is found, to compel states, by force if necessary, to act in accordance with its resolutions. Unlike any other body before or since, it alone has the authority to impose legal obligations on states, regardless of their agreement or will. In terms of peace and security, it is the supreme legislature. It can even authorize the invasion of a state. Or, as in the case of Iraq, fail to do so. It can stop genocide. Or, as in the case of Rwanda, fail to do so.For most of its history, decision-making in the Security Council has been profoundly frustrated by the veto power of the five permanent members. But the past failures of the council do not derogate from the fact that every major issue of our times has been debated in that body as will every major issue in the years ahead. Its decisions (e. g., Korea) or inactions (e. g., Serbia) change the course of history. This is the body where the stakes are the highest, the opportunities the greatest, the consequences of success and failure the most far-reaching. Many states conduct more or less permanent campaigns to win a seat. The reason is simple. If you want to enhance your influence in world affairs, you want to be at the table in the Security Council chamber.
This may seem like a bit of a simplistic solution, but I can't think of any better ideas. We may want to wish the U.N. away, but it's not going to die. Better to engage and increase our clout.
