Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has openly challenged the relevance of international organizations such as the United Nations, emphasizing their inability to fulfill their roles amid modern global conflicts. This assertion was made during a three-hour podcast with prominent American podcaster and computer scientist Lex Fridman, where Modi voiced strong criticisms of the UN's effectiveness, particularly as tensions rise globally involving conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Gaza situation.
During the podcast, Modi highlighted, "The international organizations formed have become almost irrelevant; there is no reform in them. Institutions like the UN cannot play their role.” He continued, expressing concern over how individuals and nations uncommitted to laws and regulations seem to act without consequence, stating, “People in the world who do not care about laws and rules are doing everything, no one is able to stop them.”
Modi urged nations to abandon paths of conflict and instead embrace cooperation, insisting, “The path of development will be right, the path of expansionism will not work. The world is interdependent, interconnected; everyone needs everyone; no one can do anything alone.” He expressed hope for global relief from conflict soon.
Reflecting on the lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prime Minister noted it served as a stark reminder of every nation’s vulnerabilities. He remarked, “COVID was a leveler for all countries... the modern wars are not merely for resources or interests, but conflicts emerge across different areas.” His observations resonate with recent sentiments expressed during the UN’s ‘Summit of the Future’ where he highlighted the urgent need for reforms to revitalize institutions such as the UN.
While advocating these views, Modi reiterated India's historical call for permanent membership within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He pointed out, “India has been arguing for years now it deserves to be at the UN high table,” emphasizing the need for the UNSC to reflect contemporary global realities. The Council, which includes five permanent members – the USA, UK, China, France, and Russia – continues to lack inclusion of major democracies like India, which last served as a non-permanent member from 2021 to 2022.
Interestingly, Modi's remarks coincided with supportive responses from countries like the UK and France, both expressing their endorsement for India's aspirations to become a permanent member. Modi expressed with conviction during the podcast, “We must have faith and unity among nations amid rising global tensions.”
Modi's podcast interaction serves not only as voice to his grievances about the UN, but it also surfaced discussions of international relationships. He spoke of his rapport with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, underscoring the constructive approach he hopes to maintain. He reflected, “I am not neutral. I have always said we stand for peace... the entire world has suffered because of the war.”
When discussing peace between Russia and Ukraine, Modi shared advice with Zelensky, urging, “Brother, regardless of how many people stand with you, there will never be a solution on the battlefield. The solution will only come when both Ukraine and Russia come to the negotiating table.”
He reaffirmed India’s position rooted deeply within diplomatic tradition, noting, “I represent the land of Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. We are not in favor of conflict.” Modi illustrated how extensively the global south has been affected by current crises including food and fuel shortages. The global community, he stated, is vying for opportunities to engage meaningfully, especially as the conditions present chances for productive dialogue.
Notably, Modi's podcast remarks have sparked criticism back home as the Indian Congress party expressed concerns over the Prime Minister’s alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump’s rhetoric. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh alleged Modi is trying to keep Trump amused, arguing, “This is the US President's language... opportunities for Indian peacekeepers abroad are invaluable,” contesting the Prime Minister's sweeping critiques of international organizations.
Ramesh highlighted the benefits India has derived from such institutions, stressing, “Is the WHO not good for India and is the WTO not good for India? The Paris Agreement, regardless of its challenges, is also beneficial for our nation.” He articulated the need for constructive criticisms of these organizations rather than outright dismissal once Modi characterized them as ineffective.
Beyond the debate on global governance, Modi's endorsement of Trump, particularly commending him for decisiveness and dedication to America, drew attention during this exchange. Modi asserted, “I share mutual trust with Trump. We connect well because we believe putting national interests above everything else is key.” This friendship highlights how international diplomacy can often walk the fine lines between national and global priorities.
Continuing, Modi expressed admiration for Trump's courage amid recent challenges, including the gunning incident Trump faced during his election campaign trail. “Trump appeared far more prepared than before,” Modi noted, reinforcing his alignment with the U.S. leader's approach.
The dynamics of Modi’s relationship with Trump, coupled with critiques from the Congress, indicate how his government seeks to navigate global issues and relationships, especially concerning multilateralism. His emphasis on unity and collaboration, juxtaposed with criticisms of established organizations, points to the complex balancing act required to lead India on the world stage. Modi, as he concluded, envisions India moving forward, intent on assuming its role as one of the largest economies globally, but also one committed to peace and development.
Prime Minister Modi's statements on major platforms like Fridman's podcast exemplify how national leaders can shape dialogues on global governance, and with this, the attention remains fixed on both his domestic posture and international aspirations.
