Jaishankar Marks UN’s 80th Year with Commemorative Stamp, Delivers Sharp Message
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar unveiled a special postage stamp in New Delhi today honoring the United Nations’ 80th anniversary, celebrating India’s decades-long partnership with the global body. But his speech carried a bold critique, questioning the UN’s effectiveness in upholding its core mission: global peace.
“If the maintenance of global peace became lip service, then the very credibility of the UN would be at stake,” Jaishankar declared, highlighting India’s frustration with the organization’s structural biases and inconsistent crisis responses.
Stamp Honors Legacy, Speech Demands Change
The commemorative stamp, featuring the UN emblem and India’s tricolor, reflects the nation’s deep-rooted commitment to multilateralism. As a founding UN member, India has long pushed for fairer global governance, including a permanent Security Council seat.
Jaishankar cited India’s contributions—from peacekeeping to climate leadership—but stressed the UN must adapt. “The world of 2024 is not the world of 1945. Yet, the institutions remain frozen in time,” he said, hinting at veto powers blocking reforms.
UN’s Credibility Crisis: From Ukraine to Gaza
The minister’s remarks come amid rising global dissatisfaction with the UN’s handling of conflicts, where Security Council deadlocks—often due to geopolitical rivalries—have stalled resolutions. Jaishankar argued multilateralism must yield action, not just words.
“When powerful nations ignore UN resolutions or humanitarian crises are sidelined for political gains, the world notices,” he said, aligning with India’s recent calls against double standards in global governance.
India’s UN Evolution: From Recipient to Leader
India’s UN journey reflects its growing global stature:
– Peacekeeping: Over 200,000 Indian personnel deployed across 49 missions.
– Climate Action: Spearheaded initiatives like the International Solar Alliance.
– G20 Leadership: Amplified Global South voices during its presidency.
Yet, Jaishankar warned: “The UN must reform or risk irrelevance.”
Can the UN Reform? G4’s Push vs. Permanent Members’ Resistance
Experts note the UN’s future hinges on democratizing its structure. India, part of the G4 (with Japan, Germany, Brazil), seeks Security Council expansion—a move opposed by China and others.
Jaishankar positioned India as a bridge: “Multilateralism can’t be a selective club. It must include all voices.”
Conclusion: A Stamp with a Deeper Message
The UN stamp launch isn’t just symbolic—it’s a diplomatic challenge. Jaishankar’s critique underscores India’s ambition to reshape global institutions while demanding accountability.
As crises mount, the world watches: Will the UN reform, or will its promises remain unfulfilled?
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