NEW DELHI: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has joined the growing calls for India’s inclusion as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
In his address to the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Starmer stated, “We want to see permanent African representation on the Council, as well as permanent members from Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany, along with more seats for elected members.”
He emphasized the need for the UNSC to evolve into a more representative body capable of effectively addressing global challenges without being hampered by political paralysis. “If we want the system to deliver for the poorest and most vulnerable, their voices must be heard. We need to make the system more representative and responsive to those who need it most,” he said. “The Security Council must change to become a more inclusive body willing to act.”
Starmer’s endorsement of India’s bid follows similar support from leaders in the United States and France, reflecting a growing consensus among several countries advocating for UNSC reform, which has largely remained unchanged since its establishment in 1945.
The current UNSC comprises five permanent members— the United States, China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom— all holding veto power over substantive resolutions, alongside ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
Starmer argued that including nations like India, Brazil, Japan, and Germany as permanent members would enhance the Council’s legitimacy and effectiveness. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this sentiment just days earlier, emphasizing that an expanded UNSC is crucial for improving its efficiency and representation, advocating for permanent seats for India, Brazil, Japan, Germany, and two representatives from Africa.
US President Joe Biden has also recognized India’s significant role on the global stage, supporting its bid during recent discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
India has long argued for its rightful place as a permanent member of the UNSC, citing its growing geopolitical influence and contributions to global peacekeeping efforts. Having served as a non-permanent member from 2021 to 2022, India continues to advocate for reforms that reflect current geopolitical realities.
The recent endorsements from major powers like the UK, US, and France represent a significant step toward achieving India’s long-sought goal, as they collectively call for a reformed UNSC that better represents today’s world dynamics.
