The recent call for India's permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has gained momentum with Chile's President Gabriel Boric Font leading the charge.
During the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the UN in New York, President Font emphasised the need for reform within the UN, highlighting how much the world has evolved since the organisation was established in 1945. At that time, only 51 nations, including Chile, participated in creating what has become a crucial global institution.
President Font's remarks underscored the urgency of reforming the UNSC, asking pointed questions about the barriers to such changes. He referred to the consensus among various global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and US President Joe Biden, all of whom have expressed their support for a reformed council.
Font urged the assembly to set a deadline for these reforms, suggesting that by the time the UN celebrates its 80th anniversary, the Security Council should better reflect contemporary global realities. He proposed that nations like Brazil from Latin America and India, along with at least one African country, should be included in this reformed structure.
Following his discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recent Quad Summit in Delaware, President Biden reiterated the United States' full backing for India's bid for permanent membership in the UNSC.
The Joint Fact Sheet released after their meeting highlighted America's commitment to reforming global institutions to better represent India's significant role on the world stage. This marks a crucial endorsement for India, reflecting its increasing influence and leadership in international affairs.
Russia has also shown consistent support for India’s aspirations. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, arriving in New York for the UN General Assembly, reiterated the need for a more inclusive Security Council.
Lavrov articulated Moscow's support for the legitimate aspirations of India, Brazil, and African nations to obtain permanent membership. He acknowledged the under-representation of developing countries in the UNSC, arguing that addressing this imbalance is essential for global governance.
The call for reform comes at a pivotal moment as the world transitions towards a multipolar order, necessitating a reevaluation of global institutions to ensure they are representative and reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities.
By advocating for India's inclusion, both Chile and Russia are recognizing the necessity for reform in the UNSC to meet the expectations and needs of a rapidly changing world.
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