'We must be bold enough to change': UN chief's strong call for reform in Security Council -- Is it good news for India?

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has delivered a resounding call for reform within the UN Security Council, urging the world's most powerful nations to take the lead in restructuring the body to reflect contemporary global realities. Addressing the UN General Assembly, Guterres warned that clinging to outdated privileges could have serious consequences, emphasizing that "1945 problem-solving will not solve 2026 problems". His appeal comes as the United Nations approaches its 80th anniversary, a milestone that has prompted renewed scrutiny of the organization's effectiveness and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

The Push for Reform

Guterres highlighted the shift in global economic dynamics, noting the rise of South-South trade and the increasing influence of emerging economies. He argued that reforming international financial and trade institutions is essential, mirroring the urgent need to revamp the Security Council. The Secretary-General stressed that inaction and clinging to privilege would be detrimental to powerful states in the long run. He urged member states to act with courage and urgency, stating, "Those who try to cling to privileges today risk paying the price tomorrow".

The Security Council, established in 1945, comprises five permanent members with veto power (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. Critics argue that this structure no longer reflects the geopolitical landscape and limits the Council's ability to respond effectively to modern challenges. Deep divisions within the Council have hampered its response to major conflicts, including those in Ukraine and Gaza.

India's Long-Standing Campaign

India has been a leading voice in the decades-long campaign for Security Council reform, advocating for expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories. New Delhi argues that the current composition is not fit for purpose in the 21st century and fails to represent contemporary geopolitical realities. India has served as a non-permanent member of the Security Council seven times, most recently in 2021-22.

Eldos Mathew Punnoose, Counsellor at India's Permanent Mission to the UN, emphasized that the organization's failure to act decisively in core areas raises questions about its credibility and effectiveness. He pointed out that the widening gap between global challenges and the UN's ability to address them underscores the urgent need for structural reform. India has called for expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories and maintains that it deserves a permanent seat. India believes it possesses all the necessary credentials to be a permanent member of a reformed and expanded UN Security Council that reflects contemporary global realities.

Is Reform Good News for India?

Guterres's call for reform is undoubtedly a positive signal for India's aspirations. It reinforces the growing consensus that the Security Council must adapt to remain relevant and effective. A reformed Security Council that includes India as a permanent member would likely enhance the body's legitimacy and its ability to address global challenges.

India's inclusion would also provide a stronger voice for the Global South, ensuring that the concerns and perspectives of developing countries are better represented in international decision-making. As a major economic power and a significant contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, India's presence on the Council would bring valuable expertise and resources to the table.

However, the path to reform is not without obstacles. Vested interests, disagreements among member states, and the requirement for consensus among the existing permanent members pose significant challenges. The "United for Consensus" group, led by Italy and including Pakistan, has resisted the adoption of a negotiating text, hindering progress.

Despite these challenges, Guterres's strong call for reform provides renewed momentum for India's campaign. As the UN approaches its 80th anniversary, the pressure to modernize the Security Council is growing, and India is well-positioned to play a central role in shaping the future of the organization. The Secretary-General's emphasis on the need for bold action and a willingness to change offers a glimmer of hope that meaningful reform is within reach.