India recently launched a campaign for the non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for 2021-22. If successful, this will be the eighth occasion India will hold this position, following its most recent term in 2011-2012. However, the nation’s ambitions extend beyond this non-permanent status, as it is also vying for permanent UNSC membership alongside other G4 countries: Japan, Brazil, and Germany.
Requirements for Membership
Although India is currently the only candidate from Asia-Pacific, it still requires approval from two-thirds of the 193-member General Assembly to secure the seat. The decisive secret ballot is due to be held on June 17, 2020, in New York, USA.
Issues Confronting International Governance
International governance has been confronted by an array of security challenges in recent years, both traditional and non-traditional. Terrorism is frequently cited as one of the most pressing. The rise of these threats has occurred against a backdrop of unreformed and under-representative global institutions. Further compounding these issues is the Covid-19 pandemic, which has significantly increased the strain on the UNSC due to its vast economic impact.
India’s Proposed Solutions
India is advocating for N.O.R.M.S, which stands for a New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System. During its potential tenure, India plans to prioritize international terrorism, United Nations reforms, UNSC expansion, peacekeeping operations, and technology initiatives.
Background on India’s Campaign
India’s campaign for a 2021 UNSC seat has been in the works since 2013. The chosen year coincides with the 75th anniversary of India’s independence. Securing an uncontested spot was challenging, but Afghanistan graciously stepped aside for the 2021-22 seat in a gesture of goodwill. Through diligent diplomacy and negotiations, India also secured the nomination from the Asia-Pacific grouping, thereby warding off any competition.
Challenges to India’s Candidacy
Despite these preparations, securing maximum votes at the General Assembly may prove difficult for India due to increased tensions with Pakistan and China, as well as criticism from Turkey, Malaysia, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation over domestic policy decisions.
Selection Procedure for UNSC Non-permanent Members
Each year, five non-permanent members are chosen for a two-year term from a region-based pool of ten candidates. Article 23 of the UN Charter lays out the criteria for the Security Council’s composition.
Contenders for Other Seats
Mexico is anticipated to secure the Latin American group’s seat without opposition. Meanwhile, Canada, Ireland, and Norway are competing for the West European and Others Group’s two places. The final African seat will be contended for by Kenya and Djibouti.
India’s Vision for the UNSC
India has long believed that the UNSC should be reformed and expanded, both in terms of permanent and non-permanent membership. As a recognized rising power, India argues that multilateral forums need to be democratized, starting with the United Nations system. In this changing landscape of global governance, India seeks its rightful recognition within the UNSC.
