The fact that Russia is part of the UN Security Council's powerful P5 group of nations means the UN is in a tricky position when it comes to maintaining peace among its member states.
Australia's presidency of the UN Security Council is an opportunity for the government to support the women, peace and security agenda in Syria, writes Laura Shepherd.
The UN Security Council’s sanctions regime processes are in need of reform. Can Australia make any effective changes during its presidency, ask Christopher Michaelsen and Marie-Eve Loiselle.
Australia should use its position as president of the UN Security Council to deliver durable improvements to the Council's effectiveness, write Jeremy Farrall and Jeni Whalan.
It is imperative that Australia use its position on the UN Security Council to speak out about the use of drones, write Laura Shephard and Caitlin Hamilton.
Australia will need to stake out an independent position on matters that come before the Security Council while developing a national approach to the global agenda, writes Anthony Burke.
