UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his endorsement for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, adding to a growing chorus of support from global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
Speaking in New York, Starmer emphasized the need for the Security Council to evolve, stating, “The Security Council has to change to become a more representative body, willing to act – not paralyzed by politics.” He expressed support for not only India but also Brazil, Germany, and Japan to join as permanent members, along with calls for increased representation for African nations.
India has been a vocal advocate for reforms within the UNSC, arguing that the current structure, established in 1945, is outdated and does not reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century. The nation’s most recent term at the UN was as a non-permanent member from 2021 to 2022. Support for India’s permanent membership reflects a broader recognition of the necessity to expand the council’s representation to better address global challenges.
In his address, Starmer reiterated the importance of reforming international institutions to enhance their effectiveness, echoing sentiments shared by Macron just a day earlier. During Macron’s speech at the UNGA, he stated, “We have a Security Council that is blocked… Let’s make the UN more efficient. We have to make it more representative.” Macron emphasized that France supports the inclusion of Germany, Japan, India, and Brazil as permanent members, alongside two representatives chosen by African nations.
The calls for reform come at a critical time, as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also weighed in, describing the UNSC as “outdated” and warning that its authority is diminishing. Guterres stressed that without significant changes to its composition and methods of operation, the UNSC risks losing its credibility in international diplomacy.
The United Nations Security Council is composed of 15 members, including five permanent members with veto power—namely the United States, China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom—and 10 non-permanent members serving two-year terms. The council plays a vital role in investigating conflicts, establishing peacekeeping operations, and imposing sanctions, making its reform a pivotal topic in global diplomatic discussions.
As India continues to advocate for its rightful place at the UN high table, the backing from leaders like Starmer and Macron signals a growing recognition of the need for a more representative and effective United Nations Security Council.
Sources By Agencies
