Each member of the Security Council has one vote. Decisions on matters of procedure are taken by an affirmative vote of at least nine of the 15 members. Decisions on substantive matters also require nine votes, including the concurring votes of all five permanent Members as described above.

The Security Council use the same procedure described in this manual, however, they may adopt two different types of resolutions: 1) consensus resolutions and 2) resolutions adopted by vote.

1. “Consensus Resolutions” are resolutions drafted by the committee and then formally adopted by the President of the Security Council by stating, “Not withstanding an objection of the committee Resolution X is hereby adopted.” This type of resolution places emphasis on an image of unanimity when some members would feel obligated to vote against or abstain on a resolution that was formally voted upon. At any point a member may defeat a consensus resolution by objecting and calling for a vote. In that situation the resolution to become effective must be adopted by an affirmative vote of the committee. (see Resolution Adopted by Vote).
   
2. “Resolution Adopted by Vote” is the more formal and common type of resolution considered by the Security Council. Resolutions are adopted by vote when, in spite of consultations, the Security Council members have failed to reach a consensus; any member may object to an attempt to adopt a resolution by consensus, and thereby force such a vote.
   

The Security Council may also pursue two additional forms of decision-making: 1) Presidential Statement of Consensus and 2) Communications of the President of the Consensus of the Body.

1. “Presidential Statement of Consensus” is used when a consensus by the Security Council does not easily fit into a resolution format. In this case the President of the Security Council may, if he/she perceives a consensus and sees no resolution, wish to consult with Members concerning the substance of a formal statement. The President will read the statement in a formal session, and if there is no objection, the statement is made an official decision of the Security Council.
   
2. “Communications of the President of the Consensus of the Body” is the subtlest form of decision making available to the Security Council. This form is like the Presidential Statement of Consensus except that it is less public. A statement is made by the President of the Security Council, but is not made during formal session. This technique is used when the Security Council wishes to minimize damaging debate.