Image Crediits-The America Times
India has renewed its call for comprehensive reforms to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), emphasizing the need for greater representation of Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, as well as addressing the under-representation of the Asia-Pacific region in the Council’s permanent membership. The statement was delivered by Ambassador R. Ravindra, Chargé d’Affaires and Deputy Permanent Representative of India, during the UNSC High-Level Debate on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security.
In his address, Ambassador Ravindra criticized the current structure of the UNSC, arguing that it has failed to fulfill its primary responsibility of safeguarding international peace and security, particularly in the face of recent global geopolitical challenges. He pointed out that the Council’s composition reflects the realities of 1945, when it was established, rather than the present-day geopolitical landscape.
“Recent global geopolitical events have clearly shown that the UN Security Council is unable to deliver on its primary responsibilities when the world needs it the most,” Ravindra stated. He emphasized that the lack of representation from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, as well as the under-representation of the Asia-Pacific region, are significant factors contributing to the Council’s underperformance.
As a member of the G4, a group of countries advocating for UNSC reform, India reiterated its commitment to supporting the legitimate demands of African nations for representation in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of the Council. “We are convinced that African representation in both categories will be an indispensable part of UNSC reform for a more representative and effective Council,” Ravindra added.
The G4, which includes India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, has long advocated for an expanded and reformed UNSC that reflects the current geopolitical realities and enhances the Council’s effectiveness in maintaining international peace and security.
Ambassador Ravindra’s statement highlights India’s continued efforts to push for a more inclusive and representative global governance structure. The call for reforms resonates with the broader international community, which has increasingly recognized the need to address the inequities within the UNSC and ensure that it is better equipped to respond to contemporary global challenges.