For the first time during its 2021-2022 tenure as a non-permanent member, India has assumed presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in August 2021. This marks the country’s eighth term on the UNSC since it began its two-year stint in January 2021.
Key Responsibilities of India’s UNSC Presidency
As president, India will decide and coordinate the agenda of the UN body for the month, leading important meetings on a variety of subjects. The country plans to organise pivotal events focused on three key areas: maritime security, peacekeeping, and counter-terrorism.
The Security Council’s agenda for the month includes significant meetings relating to Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Yemen, and the Middle East. Additionally, crucial resolutions about Somalia, Mali, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon will be discussed and potentially adopted.
Notably, this tenure will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to preside over a meeting of the UNSC, an honour last bestowed upon then Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao in 1992.
International Support for India’s Presence at the Helm
France and Russia have publicly expressed their support for India’s presidency. France is committed to collaborating with India on strategic issues such as maritime security, peacekeeping, and counter-terrorism. Russia, impressed by India’s agenda that addresses critical global concerns, has also welcomed India’s new role.
Challenges Ahead for India at the UNSC
India faces several challenges at the UNSC, with China’s assertive global presence being a prominent concern. At a time when China leads six UN organisations and increasingly challenges international rules, concerns about Beijing’s aggressive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific and disputes at the India-China border have come to the fore.
Another challenge looms in the form of navigating the post-Covid world order, with economies in shambles and numerous countries grappling with recession and health emergencies. Added to this is the tension between the USA and Russia, and increasing conflict between the US and Iran, that India will have to handle deftly.
Understanding the United Nations Security Council
The UNSC, one of the six main organs established by the UN’s Charter, carries the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Article 23 of the UN Charter outlines the composition of the UNSC, and it alone has the power to make decisions that member states are obliged to implement under the Charter.
The council’s headquarters is located in New York, and it comprises 15 members – five permanent and ten non-permanent members. The council’s presidency rotates every month among its 15 members.
Voting and Discussions at the UNSC
Each member of the Security Council has one vote. An affirmative vote of nine members, along with the concurring votes of the permanent members, is required for making decisions on matters. Any “No” vote from one of the five permanent members can block a resolution. Non-member countries of the Security Council may participate in discussions without voting if the council deems their interests are affected.
India’s Ambition for a Permanent Seat
India has been advocating for a permanent seat in the UNSC, arguing that criteria such as its population, territorial size, Gross Domestic Product, economic potential, cultural diversity, political system, and contributions to UN activities warrant inclusion.
