United Nations Security Council

"The United Nations came into existence on October 24, 1945, after the Charter had been ratified by the five permanent members of the Security Council - China, France, USSR, UK, and the United States - and by a majority of the other 46 signatories."

23 October 2003, United Nations (AFP):

"Five nations were elected to a two-year term on the UN Security Council beginning in January [2004]-- Algeria, Benin, Brazil, the Philippines and Romania.

"The five, who will replace Bulgaria, Cameroon, Guinea, Mexico and Syria, make up one-third of the 15-member council and one-half of the 10 non-permanent members. They were elected by the UN General Assembly.

"The main power in the council will remain in the hands of the five permanent veto-wielding members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States." -