UNSC Reforms Now a Necessity, Says PM Modi at IBSA Dialogue
In a compelling address at the 10th IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Dialogue Forum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is “no longer an option, but a necessity.” Joined by Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro and South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, Modi emphasized the urgent need for the UNSC to reflect 21st-century geopolitical realities and ensure fair representation for the Global South.
Why the UNSC Must Change: Key Arguments
The UNSC’s five permanent members (P5)—US, UK, France, Russia, and China—have held veto power since 1945, while emerging powers like India, Brazil, and South Africa remain excluded. PM Modi criticized this outdated structure, stating:
“The current UNSC is a relic of the post-WWII era. It ignores the voices of the Global South and fails to address modern challenges.”
1. Inequitable Representation
- Africa & Latin America have no permanent seats in the UNSC.
- Asia, home to 60% of the world’s population, has only one permanent seat (China).
- India, the world’s largest democracy and fifth-largest economy, demands a rightful place.
2. Ineffective Crisis Response
The UNSC’s deadlocks on Ukraine, Syria, and terrorism highlight its failure to act decisively. A more diverse council could improve decision-making.
3. Countering China’s Veto Power
China has blocked resolutions against allies like Pakistan—India’s inclusion would balance the council.
IBSA’s Unified Demand for Reforms
The IBSA bloc, representing three major democracies, has long pushed for UNSC expansion:
– South Africa’s Ramaphosa: “Africa’s exclusion is unjust.”
– Brazil’s Bolsonaro: “Our global role merits a permanent seat.”
– India’s Modi: Proposed stronger G77 & African Union collaboration to build consensus.
Obstacles to Reform
- China opposes India’s bid due to geopolitical rivalry.
- Procedural hurdles: Reforms need a two-thirds UNGA majority and P5 approval.
- G4 (India, Brazil, Japan, Germany) is rallying support, but progress remains slow.
What’s Next?
With India’s G20 presidency (2023), Modi aims to amplify the reform push. As global crises escalate, UNSC restructuring is no longer optional—it’s vital for fairer global governance.
Stay tuned for updates on India’s diplomatic efforts and UNSC reform developments.
