Day 48 – Q. 4. India’s aspiration for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council reflects both its growing global stature and the need for a more representative multilateral system.” Critically examine the prospects and challenges of UNSC reform in this context. (250 words, 15 marks)

Q. 4. India’s aspiration for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council reflects both its growing global stature and the need for a more representative multilateral system.” Critically examine the prospects and challenges of UNSC reform in this context. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction 

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), created in 1945, reflects the power structure of  the post-WWII era. However, emerging powers like India argue that it no longer represents  the geopolitical realities of the 21st century. 

Body 

Why India seeks a permanent seat 

1. Global stature: India is the world’s most populous country, 5th largest economy, and a  nuclear power. 
2. Peacekeeping contributions: India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. 
3. Democratic credentials: World’s largest democracy, advocating multilateralism and rule based order. 
4. Moral authority: India has not misused force and has a record of responsible nuclear  behavior. 

Prospects of Reform 

1. Global support: Countries like the US, France, UK, Russia support India’s claim either  explicitly or conditionally. 
2. G4 Momentum: India works with G4 (Germany, Japan, Brazil) pushing for expanded  permanent membership. 
3. Africa’s support: African nations also demand greater representation, which aligns with  India’s position. 
4. Shifting power balance: Rise of multipolarity and declining credibility of UNSC (due to  veto misuse) strengthen reform calls. 

Challenges to Reform 

1. P5 resistance: Existing permanent members are reluctant to dilute their exclusive power,  especially regarding the veto. 
2. Consensus deficit: Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) lack progress due to differences  between regional groupings. 
3. Regional rivalry: Pakistan opposes India’s bid; China remains non-committal; Africa and  Latin America lack consensus on nominees. 
4. UfC opposition: The Uniting for Consensus (UfC) group, including countries like Italy,  Pakistan, and South Korea, opposes new permanent members. 
5. Procedural hurdles: Amending the UN Charter requires approval from two-thirds of the  General Assembly and all P5. 

Way Forward 

1. Coalition building: India should deepen coordination with G4 and L.69 group to push text based negotiations. 
2. Diplomatic pressure: Use its global partnerships and platforms like G20 and BRICS to  lobby for reform. 
3. Public diplomacy: Highlight UNSC’s ineffectiveness in Ukraine, Gaza, etc., to build public  opinion for reforms. 
4. Support Africa’s cause: Strengthen its credibility by endorsing equitable African  representation in the permanent category. 
5. Referencing frameworks: India can push reform proposals aligned with the Ezulwini  Consensus or African Common Position. 

Conclusion

While India’s case for a permanent UNSC seat is strong, reform requires overcoming  entrenched interests. Yet, as India’s External Affairs Minister stated, “A reformed  multilateralism is not an option, it is an urgent imperative.”