The book makes the case that existing legal obligations constrain how the UN Security Council permanent members use their veto. Through the lens of atrocities occurring in Syria, Myanmar, Darfur, and elsewhere, the book outlines the parameters international law creates in situations of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.

The book outlines legal limits to the veto power of UN Security Council permanent members while atrocity crimes are occurring.

'This bold and courageous book is on the right side of history.' Mark A. Drumbl, Class of 1975 Alumni Professor of Law, Washington and Lee University