Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), established in 1945, is tasked with maintaining international peace and security. While India has been a strong advocate for a more representative and effective Council, its pursuit of a permanent seat remains unrealized. The current composition of the UNSC, reflecting the post-World War II power dynamics, is increasingly seen as outdated and unrepresentative. India’s claim is based on its large population, economic strength, contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, and its commitment to multilateralism. However, several impediments stand in the way of its ambition, ranging from procedural hurdles to geopolitical opposition.
Impediments to India’s UNSC Bid
India faces a complex web of challenges in its quest for a permanent seat. These can be broadly categorized into procedural and political obstacles.
Procedural Impediments
- Article 23 of the UN Charter: This article stipulates that any alteration to the UN Charter, including adding permanent members to the UNSC, requires the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the UN General Assembly, including all five permanent members (P5) – China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This ‘veto power’ of the P5 is a significant hurdle.
- Lack of Consensus on Expansion Criteria: There is no universally agreed-upon criteria for expanding the UNSC. The ‘Uniting for Consensus’ group (including countries like Italy, Pakistan, Mexico, and Egypt) opposes adding permanent members and favors expanding only non-permanent seats.
- The ‘P5+1’ Proposal: While some proposals suggest adding new permanent members without veto power (the ‘P5+1’ model), this is not acceptable to India, which seeks a seat with full privileges, including the veto.
Political Impediments
- China’s Opposition: China has consistently opposed India’s bid, citing concerns about regional rivalry and India’s nuclear status. China’s close relationship with Pakistan, which also opposes India’s candidacy, further complicates matters.
- US Ambivalence: While the US has expressed support for India’s inclusion in a reformed UNSC, its commitment has been lukewarm and often contingent on broader geopolitical considerations. The US prioritizes maintaining its own influence within the Council.
- Resistance from Regional Rivals: Countries like Pakistan actively lobby against India’s candidacy, highlighting concerns about regional instability and India’s alleged non-compliance with UN resolutions.
- Lack of Broad-Based Support: While India enjoys significant support from countries in the Global South and some Western nations, securing a unified and overwhelming consensus within the UN General Assembly remains a challenge.
India’s Efforts and Diplomatic Strategies
- G4 Nations: India is a leading member of the G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan), which jointly advocate for UNSC reform and mutual support for their respective candidacies.
- Common Security Vision: India has consistently promoted a ‘Common Security Vision’ emphasizing multilateralism, rule-based order, and peaceful resolution of disputes.
- Increased Contributions to UN Peacekeeping: India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, demonstrating its commitment to international peace and security. (As of 2023, India has contributed over 200,000 troops to UN peacekeeping missions – Knowledge Cutoff)
- Strategic Partnerships: India is strengthening its strategic partnerships with key countries to garner support for its UNSC bid.
The Need for UNSC Reform
The current structure of the UNSC is increasingly seen as inadequate to address contemporary global challenges, such as terrorism, climate change, and pandemics. A more representative and effective Council is essential for maintaining international peace and security in the 21st century. The expansion of the UNSC to include countries like India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan would enhance its legitimacy and effectiveness.
| Factor | Impact on India’s Bid |
|---|---|
| China’s Veto Power | Significant obstacle; requires diplomatic maneuvering and potentially a change in China’s stance. |
| Lack of Consensus on Expansion | Prolongs the stalemate; necessitates building broader support for a specific reform model. |
| Geopolitical Rivalries | Creates opposition from regional actors; requires addressing concerns and building confidence. |
Conclusion
India’s pursuit of a permanent seat in the UNSC is a long-term endeavor fraught with challenges. Overcoming the procedural hurdles and navigating the complex geopolitical landscape requires sustained diplomatic efforts, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to multilateralism. While China’s opposition remains a major obstacle, India’s growing economic and political influence, coupled with its consistent contributions to global peace and security, strengthens its case for reform. A reformed UNSC, reflecting the realities of the 21st century, is not only in India’s interest but also in the interest of a more just and equitable world order.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.