The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) recently welcomed five new non-permanent members: Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates. This change highlights the ongoing dynamics within the UNSC, a vital organ responsible for maintaining global peace and security. Despite India’s active involvement and significant contributions to the UN, the absence of a permanent seat for India in the UNSC remains a contentious issue.
- UNSC’s primary objective is to maintain international peace and security, making it one of the six principal organs of the UN.
- The council is headquartered in New York and is instrumental in addressing conflicts and threats to global peace.
What is UNSC?
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is a central organ of the United Nations, established in 1945 by the UN Charter. The UNSC was established by the UN Charter in 1945 as one of the six principal organs of the United Nations. Its fundamental mission is to ensure international peace and security. Alongside the General Assembly, the Trusteeship Council, the Economic and Social Council, the International Court of Justice, and the Secretariat, the UNSC plays a crucial role in global governance.
Members
The UNSC comprises 15 members, including five permanent members and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. The five permanent members are the United States, Russia, France, China, and the United Kingdom. The non-permanent members are elected based on regional representation, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive representation of the international community.
Voting Powers
Each member of the UNSC holds one vote. Decisions on substantive matters require an affirmative vote from nine members, including the concurring votes of all permanent members. The veto power held by the permanent members allows any one of them to block a resolution, underscoring their significant influence within the council.
India in the UNSC
India has been an active and influential participant in the UNSC, contributing significantly to its initiatives and decisions. India’s historical and ongoing roles underscore its commitment to international peace and security, making a compelling case for its permanent membership.
India played a crucial role in the formulation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1947–48 and voiced strong opposition to racial discrimination in South Africa. India’s advocacy for human rights and equality has been a cornerstone of its international policy, reflecting its dedication to global justice.
Peacekeeping Missions
India has been a major contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, participating in 43 missions with over 160,000 troops and police personnel. These contributions highlight India’s commitment to maintaining international peace and stability, reinforcing its credentials as a responsible global actor.
Rationale for Permanent Membership
India’s demand for a permanent seat in the UNSC is justified by its large population, territorial size, significant GDP, economic potential, civilizational legacy, cultural diversity, and its active role in UN activities. India’s inclusion as a permanent member would enhance the council’s representativeness and effectiveness.
Issues with United Nations Security Council
The UNSC faces several challenges that impact its effectiveness and legitimacy. Addressing these issues is crucial for the council to fulfill its mandate of maintaining international peace and security.
Absence of Records and Texts of Meetings
The lack of transparency in UNSC deliberations is a significant concern. The usual UN rules do not apply. Moreover, no official records or texts of meetings are maintained. This opacity hampers accountability and informed decision-making.
Powerplay in UNSC
The veto power held by the five permanent members is increasingly viewed as outdated. This power dynamic often obstructs the council’s ability to respond effectively to contemporary global challenges, undermining its role in ensuring human security and peace.
Divisions Among the P5
Deep polarisation among the permanent members (P5) frequently hinders decision-making. This division was evident during the coronavirus pandemic, where the UNSC and WHO struggled to provide a coordinated and effective response, highlighting the need for greater unity.
Underrepresentation
The absence of significant global players like India, Germany, Brazil, and South Africa from the UNSC is a major issue. This underrepresentation diminishes the council’s legitimacy and its ability to address global challenges comprehensively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reform of the United Nations Security Council is imperative to reflect the contemporary global order and address the evolving challenges of international peace and security. India, with its significant contributions and growing influence, stands as a strong candidate for permanent membership. As future policymakers, UPSC aspirants must understand these dynamics to effectively contribute to India’s strategic interests on the global stage.
