India has reiterated its demand for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), stressing the need for changes in membership categories, regional representation, council size, working methods, and the use of veto power. This call was made by India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, during a speech at the United Nations.
Harish emphasized that any reform process should address these five areas collectively, rather than isolating the issue of veto power. He argued that the veto is a significant responsibility and should be exercised with restraint, especially on issues concerning international peace and security. He highlighted concerns that the frequent use of veto power by a few countries has damaged the council’s credibility and effectiveness.
Currently, the veto power is held by the five permanent members of the Security Council: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China. Harish pointed out that the veto has been used 331 times in the history of the United Nations, with the majority of vetoes or threats coming from three of these permanent members. He also referenced a 2022 initiative that requires the UN General Assembly to hold a debate whenever a veto is cast, a move aimed at increasing accountability.
India insisted that any new framework for permanent membership should ensure equal rights and responsibilities for all permanent members, including equal access to veto power. Harish warned that introducing a separate category of permanent members without equivalent veto rights could further complicate the reform process.
In addition, India reaffirmed its support for the Common African Position, which advocates for a unified approach by the African Union in reforming the Security Council. This reflects India’s broader push for a more representative and accountable Security Council, one that can effectively address contemporary global challenges.