UN reform draft 'dilutes global consensus': India slams co-chairs
What's the story
India has slammed the latest draft on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform, accusing co-chairs of Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) of diluting global consensus. The criticism was voiced by Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, India's Permanent Representative to the UN. He argued that the current process ignores a clear democratic majority and called for an immediate shift to text-based negotiations.
Paper critique
'Significant' support for expanding permanent seats
India's criticism centers on the co-chairs' recently released Elements Paper, which is intended to summarize agreements and disagreements among member states. The paper only notes "significant" support for expanding permanent seats, but India points out that 113 of 122 member states have voted for expansion. Ambassador Harish said, "The views of a group of 12 members, that is in the clear minority, is being given considerable weightage," referring to the 'Uniting for Consensus' group opposing new permanent seats.
Reform urgency
'Endless debate' if no shift to text-based negotiations
India has warned that the IGN process could become an endless debate if it doesn't move to text-based negotiations. Ambassador Harish emphasized that trying to build consensus before drafting a negotiating text is "placing the cart before the horse." For real reform, he said, the UN must start working on a tangible text with strict timelines and milestones.
Representation equity
India calls for urgent reforms
Ambassador Harish also reminded the General Assembly that the Council's structure is stuck in 1945, not reflecting modern geopolitical realities. He said, "India's consistent effort has been to bring in a greater sense of balance and equity." Continuing a piecemeal approach will only further undermine the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Security Council, he warned.