That gives them power to block decisions that require a majority vote.

"You need at least a 25 percent stake to block decisions at shareholders' meetings."

While the Supreme Court awaits a ninth justice,tie votes of 4-to-4 have blocked decisions in some instances.

The state owns 18.2 percent of the company's shares, giving it the power to block a takeover and other major decisions.

That's enough to block decisions on many issues, not just in the UN climate convention.

Although the minority can block decisions, this requires 100 per cent agreement.

The Helsinki European Conference normally works through consensus, permitting any single government to block decisions.

Under current law, a workers council can block decisions on hiring and firing workers.

The constitution gives the council the power to block decisions taken by future civilian presidents.

He said no small group of countries should be able to block decisions, and this is so.