Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has called for the inclusion of India, Brazil, and African nations as permanent members of the UN Security Council to enhance global representation. India has long sought reform of the Security Council, emphasizing its need to adapt to 21st-century realities. Recent backing from global leaders for India’s permanent membership bid indicates a growing consensus on the issue.
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has articulated his country’s perspective on the need for increased representation of nations like India and Brazil within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). In an interview published by TASS, Lavrov emphasized that the inclusion of these countries, along with representatives from Africa, is vital for achieving a true representation of the global majority in this pivotal international body. He stated, “Countries such as India, Brazil, as well as representatives of Africa should have been on a permanent basis in the Security Council for a long time. This is necessary to ensure representativeness, representation of the global majority.” India’s ongoing efforts to advocate for reforms in the UNSC highlight the inadequacy of the existing structure, established in 1945, which does not align with the dynamics of contemporary geopolitics. New Delhi has consistently argued for the necessity of expanding both permanent and non-permanent seats within the Council, positioning itself as a deserving candidate for permanent membership. The momentum in support of India’s position has seen backing from global leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, US President Joe Biden, and French President Emmanuel Macron, who have all endorsed India’s bid for a permanent seat at the high table of the UNSC. India last served as a non-permanent member during the 2021-2022 term, and the demand for an expanded group of permanent members continues to gain traction as the international community recognizes the necessity for a Council that reflects current global realities.
The United Nations Security Council, established to maintain international peace and security, has faced criticism for its structure that predominantly reflects the geopolitical landscape of the mid-20th century. With only five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—India has persistently advocated for a reform that would allow for the inclusion of additional permanent members to represent the global majority more effectively. This reform has gained significant support recently, as various nations and global leaders acknowledge the need for representative governance within such an influential international institution.
Sergey Lavrov’s statements regarding the need for India, Brazil, and African countries to be granted permanent representation in the UNSC underline a growing recognition of the changing geopolitical landscape. The ongoing reforms aimed at expanding the membership of the Council reflect the urgent need for a body that truly represents the global majority, as emphasized by India’s enduring claim for a permanent seat. With support from prominent world leaders, the momentum for change within the UNSC continues to build, advocating for a more equitable representation in international diplomacy.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
