A veto is a concept in the constitution of many governments and organizations. Essentially, a veto allows a member of a government or group to strike down a proposed measure. It is most often used in the context of legislation, but the veto power can also be found on corporate boards and even within the United Nations. The power of veto is an example of a system of checks and balances which ensures that powers are shared among members of government.

In Latin, the word means “I forbid,” and the concept of a veto dates back to Roman times. The power ensures that no branch of a government becomes too strong, because another branch can overrule its decisions. Usually, the terms of veto power are clearly laid out in a governing document, to ensure that the power is not abused.

One of the most well known examples of the veto is in the United States (US). In the US, proposed legislation starts in the Congress and moves to the Senate. If the bill is approved by both houses, it is sent to the President for approval. The President has 10 days in which to review the bill. If he or she does nothing, the bill passes automatically into law. The President can also sign a bill, indicating approval, as is done with important legislation. In other instances, the President may write “veto” on the bill, indicating that he or she does not approve it, and the bill is sent back to the House.

If the House disagrees with the veto, a two thirds vote can override the veto. This ensures that a President does not arbitrarily veto legislation. If the veto is not overturned, the bill is rewritten and submitted again. Usually, a President indicates his or her reasons for the veto when returning the bill to the House, so that it can be rewritten effectively. A related concept, the “pocket veto,” occurs when the House adjourns before the 10 day period is elapsed. If the President does nothing, the bill fails to become law.

Members of the United Nations security council also have veto power, ensuring that the balance of power is better shared between member nations. Many other governments around the world have adopted the concept of the veto, as have some companies. In all of these cases, a veto may simply delay the inevitable, but it does spark discussion and negotiation which may make an onerous concept more agreeable to all parties.