On February 23, 2015, Ambassador Samantha Power, the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, addressed a Security Council debate on the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter. The discussion highlighted the ongoing relevance of these foundational guidelines nearly 70 years after their inception.
Ambassador Power emphasized the importance of keeping in mind "the people whose rights and welfare are dramatically affected" by how well the UN fulfills its mandate. She pointed out that recommitting to these principles means defending individuals' dignity worldwide.
She outlined three key areas where improvements are needed. First, she urged the Security Council to fulfill its role in maintaining international peace and security, citing Syria as an example where divisions have hindered action against civilian attacks by the Assad regime. "As a result, we’ve let down the people at the heart of the Charter," she stated.
Second, Power called for Member States to act in good faith according to their obligations under the Charter. She noted successes like arms embargoes in Africa but stressed that political will is necessary for meaningful action. For instance, she criticized the Council's silence when Sudan denied UN peacekeepers access to investigate alleged human rights violations.
Thirdly, Power advocated for more effective pressure on states violating UN principles or repressing their populations. She referenced North Korea's human rights abuses as documented by a UN Commission of Inquiry, which led to a General Assembly resolution condemning these actions.
Power linked widespread human rights violations with threats to international peace and security. She cited examples such as North Korea's nuclear threats and Syria's conflict contributing to regional instability and terrorism.
The ambassador concluded by warning against distorting UN purposes and principles to block global challenges or shield oppressive regimes under sovereignty claims. Quoting President Obama, she said: “sovereignty cannot be a shield for tyrants."
Ambassador Power urged recommitment to the charter as a blueprint for advancing global safety and human rights rather than dividing efforts.