Languages of the UN Security Council

The official languages of the UN Security Council are English, French, Russian, Chinese, and Arabic. Spanish is not an official language of the council.

The use of Chinese as an official language in the UN Security Council has been a source of controversy and debate, as some countries have argued that it should not be given equal status to the other four official languages.

English is considered to be the working language of the UN Security Council, as it is the most widely used language among the council members and is used for most of the council's official documents and communications.

Simultaneous interpretation is provided in all five official languages of the UN Security Council during its meetings, allowing representatives from all member states to participate in the discussions and negotiations.

Chinese was added as an official language of the UN Security Council in 1973, reflecting the growing importance of China in international affairs and its permanent membership on the council.

The official records of the UN Security Council are kept in all five official languages, ensuring that all member states have equal access to the council's proceedings and decisions.

Public statements and press releases issued by the UN Security Council are typically released in all five official languages, allowing for widespread dissemination of information to the international community.

Resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council are issued in all five official languages, ensuring that they are legally binding and enforceable in all member states.

Debates and discussions during UN Security Council meetings are conducted in all five official languages, allowing representatives from all member states to participate and express their views.

Translation services are provided in all five official languages within the UN Security Council, facilitating communication and understanding among member states.

Interpretation services are provided in all five official languages during UN Security Council meetings, allowing representatives from all member states to follow the proceedings in their own language.

Reports and resolutions drafted by the UN Security Council are issued in all five official languages, ensuring their accuracy and consistency across different linguistic contexts.

The official website and social media accounts of the UN Security Council provide information and updates in all five official languages, catering to a global audience.

Training and development programs for UN Security Council staff and interpreters are conducted in all five official languages, ensuring their proficiency and effectiveness in their roles.

Outreach and engagement activities conducted by the UN Security Council with non-member states and civil society organizations are carried out in all five official languages, promoting inclusivity and participation.