India has strongly opposed the introduction of new criteria such as religion and faith as a basis for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Speaking on behalf of the G4 nations—Brazil, Germany, Japan, and India—India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, criticized the latest proposals during an Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) meeting on the future structure of the UNSC.

Regional Representation vs. New Criteria

Ambassador Harish's remarks emphasized that the attempts to introduce religion and faith as factors for UNSC representation are in direct conflict with the established principle of regional representation. This principle has been a cornerstone of UN reforms and is essential to ensure fair and equitable representation for countries from various geographical regions.

India’s firm stance on this matter underscores the importance of maintaining the focus on regional representation rather than introducing complex and divisive new parameters. By rejecting these new criteria, India calls for a UNSC reform process that respects the established norms while addressing the need for more inclusive and effective global governance.

The Role of G4 Nations in UNSC Reform

The G4 nations—Brazil, Germany, Japan, and India—have long been advocating for reforming the UNSC to better reflect the geopolitical realities of the modern world. These countries have consistently pushed for an expansion of both permanent and non-permanent seats in the Council to include more diverse global voices. The G4’s position is clear: UNSC reform must be based on principles that promote fairness and inclusivity, particularly through regional representation.

During the IGN meeting, the G4 issued a joint statement reiterating their belief that proposals like those suggesting religious affiliation as a criterion for UNSC representation only complicate the already challenging discussions on reform. The G4 stressed that such proposals run counter to the practices that have long governed the UN and would undermine the goal of achieving a fair and balanced system of global representation.

Efficiency and Accountability in UNSC Reform

Ambassador Harish also addressed the argument that an expanded UNSC might be inefficient. He rejected this notion, arguing that an appropriately reformed Council, with clear working methods and robust accountability mechanisms, would function effectively and address global challenges in a meaningful way. The need for reform, according to Harish, is not just about expanding membership but ensuring that the Council can act decisively and efficiently on critical global issues.

India’s representative highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach to UNSC reform, one that includes expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories. The current proposal, which does not address both areas of expansion, would only serve to preserve the existing status quo, limiting the potential for genuine change.

A New Era for the UN

The G4 nations also pointed out that the current UN architecture, which was designed in the aftermath of World War II, no longer aligns with the present-day global realities. The geopolitical landscape has changed significantly, and the UN must adapt to reflect these shifts. As emerging powers and regions seek greater influence, the UN Security Council must evolve to be more representative and responsive to the needs of the global community.

The G4 emphasized that reform is necessary not only for fairness but also for the credibility and effectiveness of the UNSC. The world has changed, and the structure of the Security Council must evolve to keep pace with these changes. The introduction of new parameters, such as religious affiliation, would complicate and obstruct the already difficult process of reform, rather than advancing it.

Conclusion

India’s rejection of the new criteria for UNSC representation, particularly those based on religion and faith, is a call for a reformed Council that remains true to the principles of regional representation and fairness. The G4’s collective stance reaffirms the need for a modernized UNSC that is better equipped to handle the challenges of a rapidly changing world. As the discussions continue, the focus must remain on inclusive, transparent, and effective reform that enhances the legitimacy and function of the UN Security Council in addressing global issues.

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