<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
permanent members of the United Nations Security Council