<P> The United Nations Security Council `` veto power '' refers to the power of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council to veto any `` substantive '' resolution . A permanent member 's abstention or absence does not prevent a draft resolution from being adopted . However , the veto power does not apply to `` procedural '' votes , as determined by the permanent members themselves . A permanent member can also block the selection of a Secretary - General , although a formal veto is unnecessary since the vote is taken behind closed doors . </P>
<P> The United Nations Security Council `` veto power '' refers to the power of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council to veto any `` substantive '' resolution . A permanent member 's abstention or absence does not prevent a draft resolution from being adopted . However , the veto power does not apply to `` procedural '' votes , as determined by the permanent members themselves . A permanent member can also block the selection of a Secretary - General , although a formal veto is unnecessary since the vote is taken behind closed doors . </P>
who holds veto power in the united nations security council
who holds veto power in the united nations security council
permanent members of the United Nations Security Council
permanent members of the United Nations Security Council