New Zealand Slams 'Paralysis' Of UN Security Council On ISIS And Ukraine Conflict

New Zealand has criticised the United Nations Security Council ahead of a crucial vote for a seat. Foreign Minister Murray McCully slammed the UN for its alleged failure to deal with the security issues currently plaguing the world. The minister told the Wall Street Journal that New Zealand was disappointed by the council's inability to address "major security problems around the world," with inaction prevailing in some situations.

McCully cited the crisis in Iraq and Syria as an example of a situation needing the attention of the Security Council. He also said the council stood by while Russia undermined Ukraine's integrity. The minister added that many countries would want to see an improvement in the Security Council's operations. The foreign minister has reiterated that the Security Council is responsible for maintaining international peace and security and for taking an "active role" in world affairs.

McCully's criticisms come ahead of a vote that would determine the countries that will be given nonpermanent seats on the UN Security Council for 2015–2016. Reports said New Zealand is vying for a seat along with Turkey and Spain. New Zealand will have to wait for the results of the vote on Oct. 16.

If New Zealand will win a seat in the security council, McCully said the country will find a way to control the "madness" of ISIS and prevent the events in Gaza in the last few months from happening again. New Zealand is also interested in finding a lasting solution to the tension in Ukraine.

Reports said New Zealand is the smallest among the countries competing for the two seats in the council. The country's international aid budget is also smaller. New Zealand is currently not involved in the fight against ISIS in the Middle East. McCully has repeatedly said New Zealand's campaign was focused on its possible contributions to the council. It is not relying on economic support to win votes.

McCully admitted New Zealand was the "little guy" compared to the other countries in the running. However, the country has a lot to give if given the chance.

Previously, McCully spoke in the United Nations general assembly and remarked the challenge in Iraq and Syria was unlike anything the UN had faced. He slammed the "paralysis" of the Security Council for its continued inaction in the Ukraine conflict.