The foreign ministers of the G-4 countries, namely Brazil, India, Germany and Japan, convened a meeting on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly. The primary agenda of these ministers was to emphasize the to reform the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This proposed reform includes expanding both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership to increase the representativeness, effectiveness and legitimacy of UNSC.
Understanding the Need for UNSC Membership Reforms
Emerging economies like India and Brazil have significant influence in international geopolitics, which makes it crucial to reform the UNSC membership. The current composition of UNSC is representative of the global order post-1945, which has since seen considerable changes. There is over-representation from Europe, with United Kingdom, Russia and France among its five permanent members and just one, China, from Asia. South America and Africa have no representation at all. A reform will lead to a more effective and representative UNSC which is better equipped to address modern global challenges.
India’s Stakes in UNSC Reforms
India is the world’s largest liberal democracy, representing nearly one-sixth of humanity and fifth-largest economy globally. With over 100,000 Indian troops having served in U.N. missions over the past half-century, India is also one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Moreover, India has served as a non-permanent member on the UNSC seven times. Being one of the founding members of the United Nations, India has a rightful claim to a permanent seat on the UNSC which will make the body more democratic and representative.
The Common Goals of G-4 Nations
The G-4 nations of Brazil, India, Germany and Japan have a shared objective of achieving a more representative UN Security Council. They mutually support each other’s bids for permanent membership in the UNSC.
The L.69 Group and their Goal
Comprising 42 developing countries from Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, and the Pacific, the L.69 Group seeks comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to make it more representative.
The Ezulwini Consensus
The African Union has adopted the Ezulwini Consensus, a position on international relations that calls for an equitable and democratic Security Council where all global regions, including Africa, have representation.
India’s Initiatives for UNSC Membership Reforms
India has undertaken various initiatives at bilateral and multilateral levels to secure a permanent seat in a reformed UN Security Council. India is working with G-4 nations and the L.69 Group for this cause. India actively engages in ongoing Intergovernmental Negotiations on UNSC reform and participates in meetings of the “Group of Friends on Security Council Reform” since September 2016.
Support for India’s Bid
Four of the five existing permanent members, France, Russia, United Kingdom, and United States, back India’s bid for permanent membership on the council. Endorsement also comes globally from countries such as Norway, Sweden, Australia, Peru, and all members of the African Union. China, however, has yet to publicly voice its support for India’s bid.
Opposition to India’s Membership
Despite receiving widespread support, India’s bid for permanent membership faces opposition from countries including Pakistan, Italy, Mexico, Egypt, Argentina, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, and Indonesia — collectively known as the Uniting for Consensus (UfC) group. This group strongly disapproves of the G-4 nations’ quest for permanent membership on the UNSC. Pakistan, in particular, has been particularly vocal about opposing India’s inclusion as a permanent member.