Describe the purpose of the United Nations Security Council, which members make it up, and some of its past actions.

1. In the case of Syria, what did some members of the UN Security Council want to do with Syrian officials and what opposition did they face?
2. Why did Lord David Hanney, who once sat for Britain on the UN Security Council, believe that the Security Council should keep a threat of force if Syria did not comply with the ruling?

NPR: Myanmar's UN Ambassador Defies Military and Calls for Global Action

1. Describe what is happening in Kyaw Moe Tun's country that compelled him to speak before the other members of the United Nations.
2. Why was it dangerous for Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun to speak out, even though he is not currently in Myanmar? Explain why Kyaw Win, executive director of the Burma Human Rights Network, felt it was worth the risk.
3. Explain the connection Kyaw Win makes between the UN's inaction in Syria with the current situation in Myanmar.

NPR: Palestinian Official Discusses How the U.N. Can Help End Violence in Israel and Gaza

1. Explain what is limiting the role of the United Nations in trying to bring about a cease-fire in the Middle East.
2. Discuss the reasoning of the US in trying to pursue a diplomatic solution instead of a formal UN statement.
3. Describe the importance of a statement from the United Nations, according to Palestinian Ambassador Abdelhady.