Macron backs permanent UNSC seat for India
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed support for India's bid to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). During his address at the UN General Debate on Wednesday, Macron advocated for the expansion of the Security Council to include more countries. He named Germany, Japan, India, and Brazil as potential new members alongside two African nations chosen by Africa itself.
Why does this story matter?
India has been campaigning for a permanent seat on the UNSC for several years, citing its contributions to peacekeeping missions, growing global influence, and status as the world's largest democracy. The country has also called for reforms within the United Nations, specifically regarding the Security Council. In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for India's "rightful place" on the UNSC in an interview with French daily Les Echos.
Current UNSC structure and proposed reforms
The UNSC currently consists of five permanent members—United States, China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom—who hold veto powers. Several countries have backed India's inclusion in this influential group. However, China has consistently opposed the proposal. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed support for a reformed UNSC that better represents the developing world. He stated that the US has long endorsed permanent seats for India, Japan and Germany in the council.
PM Modi's criticism of UNSC's geographical representation
Earlier, PM Modi has criticized the uneven geographical representation within the UNSC and called for reforms in the global body. He stated that it exemplifies the disconnect of an institution that has not kept pace with the evolving world order. Following a Quad Leaders's Summit, leaders from the US, India, Japan, and Australia also emphasized comprehensive reform of this UN body in their joint statement.
India's frustration over lack of progress in UNSC reform
India has expressed disappointment over the slow progress in Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) concerning Security Council reform. Despite these challenges, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar remains confident about India securing a permanent seat at the UNSC. He acknowledged in April 2024 that achieving this goal might require "extra effort." In addition to the five permanent members, there are 10 non-permanent members in UNSC who are elected for two-year terms by the UN General Assembly.
