At the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79), the call for reform and expansion of the UN Security Council (UNSC) gained significant momentum. Global leaders, including those from USA, France, Russia, Bhutan, UK, strongly advocated for India’s candidacy as a permanent member. They emphasised the urgent need for UNSC reforms to give voice to the countries in Global South, including Africa, Latin America, and the Indian subcontinent.

Restructuring the UNSC is critical to reflect the changing geopolitical landscape, where countries are increasingly demanding equal representation. Among the deserving candidates like Germany, Brazil, and various African nations, India stands out due to its growing economy, large population, commitment to the UN Charter, and substantial contributions to peacekeeping missions.

Responding to the UN Secretary-General, Elon Musk remarked that it is “absurd” for India, the world’s most populous country, to still lack a permanent seat on the Security Council. While Musk’s advocacy for India may be influenced by his interest in launching Tesla in the Indian market, his statement underscores a valid point in the current global context.

SUPPORT & OBSTACLES:

Most permanent members of the UNSC, except China, have categorically supported India’s candidacy. The U.S., UK, France, and Russia have all recognized India’s growing geopolitical influence and its critical role in global affairs. However, as a regional competitor and the only Asian country with a permanent seat, China remains opposed to sharing its strategic advantage with India. The ongoing border dispute between the two nations only deepens this rivalry. Moreover, China’s opposition extends beyond India. Beijing is equally resistant to Japan’s candidacy, a close U.S. ally and another strong contender for a permanent seat.

Although the West, particularly the United States, has repeatedly voiced support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UNSC, concrete actions to advance this cause have been limited. Washington’s endorsement often feels like a routine diplomatic gesture rather than a genuine push for reform. One reason for this hesitation is India’s consistent independent stance on global issues, where it refrains from aligning with major power blocs or taking sides in international conflicts. This non-alignment, while reflecting India’s commitment to sovereignty and balanced diplomacy, may lead some to question its reliability as a strategic partner in the Western-led order.

QUESTIONING THE LEGITIMACY OF THE CURENT MEMBERS:

The debate over UNSC reform should not only address the expansion of the Security Council but also question whether members who consistently violate the fundamental principles of the UN Charter should continue to hold their privileged status. One possibility is considering India as a replacement for Russia. Because the missile attack by Russia on a  children’s hospital  in Kyiv, during the ongoing Ukraine war, raises serious questions about its legitimacy as a permanent member.

Throughout the ongoing war, Russia has committed numerous grave and inhumane acts, including allegations of war crimes, rape, and killings by its armed forces. These actions are inconsistent with the UNSC’s principles of peace and security, thereby making Russia’s position as a permanent member highly questionable.

Moreover, Russia’s veto over the extension of the United Nations aid program for 6 months, instead of the usual 12 months renewal, was condemned by many countries. Russia, by proposing a shorter extension aimed for maintaining control over the aid program, using it as a leverage for future negotiations. Nations criticised Russia’s actions because his veto would create instability and uncertainty for the aid program and among the 4 million Syrians of the worn-torn northwest region of the country.

As a permanent member of the Security Council, Russia’s defiance of the core principles of the UNSC renders its position contradictory. The international community has accused Russia of using its veto power to prioritise political interests over humanitarian needs.

MACRON’S PROPOSAL:

French President Emmanuel Macron has also emphasised the need for expansion of the  UN Security Council, advocating the inclusion of countries like: Germany, Japan, India, and Brazil and Africa. However, with Europe already over-represented on the council, calls for Germany’s inclusion may be a stretch. Replacing one of the European members with a more deserving candidate like India would better balance the geopolitical scale.

INDIA’S LEGACY OF DIALOGUE & PEACE:

India’s bid for a permanent seat is rooted in its long-standing commitment to peace and diplomacy. From the Nehruvian era to contemporary politics, India has been a strong proponent of peaceful coexistence, strong ties with other nations, and has always shown its full commitment towards the UN charter. From leading the Non-Alignment group and advocating the voice of the Global south, India has remained steadfast in upholding the principle of “Ahimsa” (non-violence) and promoting global harmony.

“The tiger has never hunted without necessity, but when provoked, it has roared in response.” This metaphor encapsulates India’s philosophy – while it does not seek conflict, it will defend itself when necessary, always with restraint and in pursuit of peace.

India’s philosophy of  “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family)  was exemplified during “Operation Dost” as India dispatched the National Disaster Relief Forces (NDRF),  along with medical supplies, rescue teams, to help earthquake-hit Turkey and Syria, demonstrating its G-20 mantra of  “One earth, One Family, one Future.”

India’s role as a mediator and advocate for peace is evident even in its interactions with Russia. During a two-day visit to Moscow, PM Modi stated, “There is no peace on the battlefield, and solutions to the war can only be found through dialogue.” This underscores India’s deep concern for the people of Ukraine. This commitment to peaceful resolutions aligns with the words of poet James Kirkup :

“Remember, no men are strange, no countries foreign

Beneath all uniforms, a single body breathes

Like ours: the land our brothers walk upon

Is earth like this, in which we all shall lie.”

By supporting human rights and advocating for global unity, India embodies the spirit of this poem, striving for a world where equality and compassion prevail. Notably,  New Delhi does not take sides, the only side it takes, is the side of Peace.

CONCLUSION:

It is imperative for the international community to reform the current composition of the UN Security Council to better reflect the modern global order. New Delhi’s inclusion would give the UNSC a truly representative voice for the developing world and the Global South, making the Council more democratic and inclusive. As the world’s largest democracy with a strong commitment to peace and justice, India presents a compelling case for a permanent seat.