text: flict. The fact that, despite these divisions, 15 nations representing all regions and very divergent political orien- tations remain in continuing contact in this body in con- nection with major political issues is further confirmation of the unique character of the Security Council. It has long been apparent, however, that these divisions have come to affect adversely the capacity of the ‘Council to fulfil the function described by the first President of directing collec- tive action for the maintenance of peace. 12. I do not believe that the Securitv Council can cure the disease of political divisions. It must act in spite of them. The Council’s main task, as I see it, is to limit and reduce the adverse effects of those divisions. One of the speakers at the first Council meeting commented that the responsibility of the Security Council Was not to create the conditions for peace, which was the competence of other bodies of the United Nations system. The responsibility of the Council was to see that peace was .kept in fact. This remains today the contribution required from the Security Council .for a better world. 13. Since 1983, the Council itself has been engaged in consultations on means of enhancing its effectiveness in this task. This process can now be seen as an important element in the assessments being made in this fortieth anni- versary year, both within and outside of Governments, of the performance of the United Nations. Much can be, and has been, learned from both the past achievements and the reverses of this performance, including those of the Secu- rity Council. But this will be of pragmatic value in terms of world peace only if what has been learned from the past is applied to the future. 
analysis: The text discusses the role and performance of the United Nations Security Council in maintaining international peace and security. It highlights the challenges posed by political divisions among member states and the need for the Council to find ways to overcome these divisions and fulfill its mandate. The text does not mention specific economic, environmental, or social issues, but rather focuses on the Council's role in international relations and diplomacy.