India is ramping up its push for reform at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), highlighting the nation’s growing influence as it advocates for changes to reflect current global realities. This renewed advocacy came to the fore during the recent BRICS Plus Summit held in Kazan, Russia, where India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, made it clear just how serious the country is about seeking permanent membership on the council.
At the summit, Jaishankar emphasized the need for established global institutions, including the UNSC, to evolve and adapt. He underscored, "This is not the era of war. Global disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy." His remarks echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for peace, aligning India's foreign policy with broader global concerns about stability and security.
Jaishankar pointed out the outdated nature of current mechanisms governing international security, stating, "By reforming established institutions and mechanisms, especially the UN Security Council, we can create a more equitable global order." He noted several key areas where reforms are not only necessary but urgent, particularly considering the rapid transformation of global power dynamics.
The UNSC’s current structure, which consists of five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US—reflects the geopolitical realities from the post-World War II era. Now, as nations like India rise, it’s increasingly evident the council needs to be updated to include voices from the Global South, which have historically been overlooked. Jaishankar mentioned this shift gently yet assertively, advocating for expanded membership to encompass nations like India.
India has made its case for permanent membership supported by influential powers, including the US, UK, and France. Following his address, Jaishankar outlined five major proposals aimed at reforming the UNSC and enhancing its responsiveness to contemporary issues:
1. Enhancement of Independent Platforms: He pointed out the importance of deciding on platforms of independent nature, allowing developing countries greater agency and removing undue reliance on established powers.
2. UNSC Reformation: He reiterated the need to reform both permanent and non-permanent categories within the UNSC, along with reforming processes within multilateral development banks. He stressed how these institutions’ outdated methods hinder effective responses to modern crises.
3. Democracy and Resilience: Jaishankar proposed democratizing the global economy through creating more resilient production hubs, particularly post-COVID. “We need shorter, more resilient supply chains as every region aspires to develop its own capabilities,” he asserted.
4. Correcting Colonial-Legacy Infrastructure: He advised correcting the undercurrents of colonial-era distortions in global infrastructure, enhancing connectivity. This, he said, is necessary for collective improvements and respecting territorial integrity.
5. Shared Initiatives: Lastly, Jaishankar shared India’s commitment to collaborative international initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure to bolster regional support and cooperation.
India’s prior contributions to global peace, particularly its successful peacekeeping operations during the Sierra Leone Civil War, provide it with not only the capability but also the moral authority to call for these reforms. The country’s historical track record emphasizes its readiness to take on more significant responsibility within international governance.
Jaishankar's call for reform is also echoed internationally, as seen through support from various nations for India's permanent inclusion. Notably, several Middle Eastern diplomats have acknowledged the strategic importance of India's role, especially concerning pressing issues like energy security. India’s established ties and collaborative efforts with countries from this region underline its suitability for the seat.
Notably, this epicenter of advocacy also reflects shifting realities. The BRICS platform itself is emblematic of how the old global order is changing, and how countries with shared visions for equitable governance can push against outdated hegemonies. Jaishankar's statements at the summit reiterate this direction, presenting BRICS as not only relevant but necessary for the Global South's representation on the world stage.
Overall, India stands firm on its path to reforming the UNSC to reflect contemporary realities, ensuring its voice is among the leaders shaping the future of international governance. The message conveyed by Jaishankar at the BRICS summit cements India's diplomatic ambitions and aspirations for recognition as a significant player on the global stage.
Whether the UNSC will heed these calls remains uncertain, but India’s advocacy continues to persuade and gather support, making it clear: the future of global governance will require voices from all corners, including those from India.
