The 76th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly recently took place. During this event, a grouping of four nations—Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan—known as the G-4 (Group of Four), held a meeting. This group has an ongoing bid to become permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Traditionally, these G-4 countries meet on the sidelines during the annual high-level UN General Assembly session. The members mutually support each other’s bids in their quest for permanent membership of the UNSC.
Call for Reform: Highlights from the G-4 Meeting
During the meeting, the G-4 expressed an ‘urgent need’ for reform within the UNSC. They referred to the increasing complexity and interconnectedness of global issues which necessitates prompt action in evolving the UN decision-making bodies.
The group also echoed their shared commitment to text-based negotiations aiming towards Reformed Multilateralism. Concerns were raised about the lack of ‘meaningful progress’ and transparency within the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) by the General Assembly.
Moreover, they reiterated their support for African nations to be represented in a permanent and non-permanent capacity. An agreement was made regarding the enhanced role and presence of developing nations and major contributors to the UN, for the Council to respond effectively to evolving international peace and security challenges.
Need for Reform in the UNSC
The UN represents a larger world yet it has only five permanent members in its significant body, the UNSC. This current composition is a reflection of post-World War II realities and does not keep pace with the swiftly changing balance of power in the world.
During the formation of the UNSC, major powers were bestowed privileges to make them part of the council, necessary for its proper functioning. However, regions such as far East Asia, South America, and Africa have no representation in the permanent membership of the council.
India’s Demand for Permanent Membership
India’s demand for permanent membership in the UNSC has grown only over the last few years. Considering its significant economy and populous democracy, India believes it deserves a permanent place in the council.
Attaining veto power through permanent membership could provide India with considerable influence. An example is India’s struggle to designate Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, which was constantly delayed by China’s use of veto power.
India being a permanent member would not only acknowledge its status as a global power ready to play a key role in international peace and security, but also endow it with the prestige associated with the council’s permanent membership.
Understanding the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
The UNSC, established by the UN charter in 1945, carries the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. It consists of 15 members, five of whom are permanent: the United States, the Russian Federation, France, China, and the United Kingdom. Non-permanent members, who each hold one vote, are elected for a two-year term.
A ‘No’ vote from a permanent member can block the passage of a resolution. Any UN member that is not a part of the Security Council may participate in discussions without voting rights if their interests are particularly affected by a question brought before the Council.
The Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN)
The IGN is a group working within the UN to further reform the UNSC. Composed of several international organizations, the IGN is actively involved in discussions and negotiations regarding the reform initiatives of the UNSC.
The Way Forward
Global power hierarchies are undergoing changes, and it’s high time for the P5 (the five permanent members of UNSC) to initiate reforms within the council. Nations seeking power need to strengthen themselves economically, militarily, and diplomatically to be part of major dialogues and groupings. Gradually, the UNSC itself should consider these nations fit to join.