The time has come for the United Nations to recognize India’s role in shaping global peace and security and to grant it the permanent seat it rightfully deserves.
By Musaib Bilal
The United Nations Security Council UNSC is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations UN. It is charged with ensuring international peace and security, recommending the admission of new UN members to the General Assembly, and approving any changes to veto power. It fosters negotiations, impose sanctions, and authorizes the use of force, including the development of peacekeeping missions. The UNSC was established following World War 2nd and is responsible for mediating on pressing issues like war and disputes between states.
The structure of the UNSC has remained largely unchanged since its inception in 1945. The geopolitical landscape, however, has shifted dramatically, with emerging powers such as India, Brazil, and South Africa playing increasingly important roles in global governance. The G4 nations—India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan—have been vocal advocates for the expansion and reform of the UNSC. They argue that the current structure, which includes five permanent members (the U.S., Russia, China, France, and the UK), no longer reflects the realities of the modern world. These five countries were the major powers at the end of World War II, but today’s world is far more complex, with new centers of power emerging across different regions.
India’s inclusion as a permanent member would help address this imbalance. It would also provide greater representation for developing nations, particularly from the Global South, which are underrepresented in the current UNSC structure. With its proven track record in peacekeeping, advocacy for equitable development, and commitment to democratic values, India is well-positioned to contribute to the UNSC’s mission of maintaining international peace and security. In 1953, India made history when Vijaya Lakshmi Panditbecame the first woman to be elected President of the UN General Assembly. This was a pivotal moment in India’s engagement with the UN, as it began to take on greater leadership roles within the organization. India has also played a significant role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, advocating for gender equality and the inclusion of all human beings, not just men, in the language of the Declaration.
India’s nuclear capabilities and its responsible stance on nuclear disarmament add to its credentials. Despite refusing to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), India has maintained a strong commitment to non-proliferation and responsible nuclear stewardship. India’s entry into the UNSC as a permanent member would bring valuable perspectives on nuclear disarmament and global security, particularly given its history of advocating for a balanced approach to these issues.
India’s most significant contributions to the UN have been through its peacekeeping efforts. India has participated in UN peacekeeping missions for decades, deploying troops in conflict zones across the world. From its early missions in Korea, Egypt, and the Congo to more recent engagements in Somalia, Rwanda, and South Sudan, India has been a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping operations. It remains one of the largest troop-contributing countries, having provided more than 180,000 personnel for over 43 missions. India’s dedication to peacekeeping demonstrates its commitment to global peace and stability, which is central to the UNSC’s mandate.
India’s efforts during the Korean War, where it played a mediatory role, and its leadership in peace initiatives in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos underscore its commitment to diplomacy. During the 1956 Suez Crisis, India’s then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, played a crucial role in defusing tensions between the Western powers and Egypt. These instances highlight India’s ability to contribute positively to international conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts, which are core responsibilities of the UNSC.
India’s leadership extends beyond peacekeeping. As a founding member of the Group of 77 (G77) and the Non-Aligned Movement, India has championed the cause of developing nations. These organizations have played a critical role in advocating for a more equitable international order, pushing for fairer trade practices, and representing the concerns of the Global South on the world stage. India has consistently worked to ensure that the voices of developing nations are heard in global decision-making forums, and this advocacy would only be strengthened with a permanent seat on the UNSC.
In addition to its diplomatic efforts, India’s economic growth further strengthens its case for a permanent UNSC seat. India is now the world’s fifth-largest economy and ranks third in terms of purchasing power parity. This economic clout, combined with its growing political influence, makes India a key player in global affairs. As the world’s largest liberal democracy, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, India represents a significant portion of humanity. The inclusion of a nation of this size and influence in the UNSC would provide a more balanced and representative council, reflecting the multipolar world that exists today.
India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UNSC has garnered significant support from several major powers, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, and France. These countries recognize India’s growing influence and its potential to contribute constructively to the UNSC’s work. Moreover, India’s position as a member of the G20 and its leadership in international forums like the International Solar Alliance further underscore its global standing.
India’s pursuit of a permanent seat on the UNSC is not just about national prestige—it is about creating a more equitable and representative global governance structure. The world today is vastly different from the world of 1945, and the UNSC must evolve to reflect these changes. India’s contributions to global peacekeeping, its leadership in advocating for the rights of developing nations, and its growing economic and political influence make it a natural candidate for a permanent seat. With its strong diplomatic history, commitment to international peace, and democratic values, India’s inclusion in the UNSC would help ensure that the Council is better equipped to address the challenges of the 21st century.
The time has come for the United Nations to recognize India’s role in shaping global peace and security and to grant it the permanent seat it rightfully deserves.
