France proposes voluntary limits on UN Security Council veto power

France has proposed that the use of veto power in the United Nations Security Council be regulated during humanitarian crises and cases of genocide. French President Emmanuel Macron announced the plan during the UN General Assembly session, arguing that veto use is a matter of responsibility rather than privilege. Experts note this builds upon the earlier French-Mexican initiative. The proposal asks permanent members of the council to voluntarily refrain from using their veto during mass atrocities, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Organisers report that 128 states now back the declaration, with 21 joining over a recent four-month period. Notably, the United Kingdom has joined France in accepting this principle of voluntary restraint, marking the first time two permanent members have committed to it. Analysts highlight that this approach avoids trying to amend the UN Charter, which would require the consent of the permanent members. Other related measures include a 2022 Liechtenstein initiative requiring the UN General Assembly to debate within ten working days whenever a veto is cast, forcing the vetoing nation to defend its action.