India Elected Non Permanent Member Of Un Security Council Unsc

India was elected to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member for a two-year term commencing on January 1, 2021. Endorsed by the Asia-Pacific States as the sole candidate, India garnered significant support, securing 184 votes out of the 192 cast. This election marks India's eighth tenure as a non-permanent member, with previous terms spanning 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992, and 2011-2012. Alongside India, Ireland, Mexico, and Norway also secured non-permanent seats.

During its term, India pledged to prioritize a 'New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System' (NORMS), emphasizing new opportunities, effective counter-terrorism, reforming multilateral systems, a comprehensive approach to peace and security, and leveraging technology with a human touch. To achieve these objectives, India will adopt the 'Five-S' approach, focusing on Samman (Respect), Samvad (Dialogue), Sahyog (Cooperation), Shanti (Peace), and Samriddhi (Prosperity). Furthermore, India holds significant positions chairing key UNSC committees on counter-terrorism, including the Counter-Terrorism Committee (established after 9/11), the Taliban Sanctions Committee (1988 Sanctions Committee), and the Libya Sanctions Committee. The UNSC Committee 1267, established in 1999, is of particular significance as it imposes sanctions on the Taliban.

India's Return to the UN Security Council: A Deep Dive

India's election to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member for the 2021-2022 term is a significant event in the landscape of international relations. It not only underscores India's growing global stature but also provides it with a crucial platform to shape international policy and contribute to global peace and security. This isn't India's first stint on the Council; it marks the eighth time India has held a non-permanent seat, a testament to its consistent engagement with the UN system and its commitment to multilateralism. To fully understand the implications of this election, it's crucial to delve into the historical context, the functions of the UNSC, India's priorities and approach, and the broader geopolitical ramifications.

The United Nations Security Council: Mandate and Structure

The UN Security Council stands as the linchpin of the United Nations system when it comes to maintaining international peace and security. Established by the UN Charter in 1945, in the aftermath of World War II, the UNSC was designed to prevent future global conflicts by providing a forum for collective security action. Its primary responsibility, as enshrined in Article 24 of the UN Charter, is to maintain international peace and security. This mandate empowers the UNSC to investigate any dispute or situation that might lead to international friction, recommend procedures for peaceful resolution, and, if necessary, take enforcement measures to maintain or restore peace.

The structure of the UNSC reflects the power dynamics that existed at the end of World War II. It comprises fifteen members: five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten non-permanent members. The permanent members, often referred to as the P5, wield significant power through their veto power. This allows any one of them to block the adoption of a UNSC resolution, regardless of the level of support it may have from other members. This veto power, while intended to ensure that the UNSC only takes action when there is broad consensus among the major powers, has also been a source of controversy and has often paralyzed the Council in situations where the interests of the P5 diverge.

The ten non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly for two-year terms. The seats are distributed among regional groups to ensure geographical representation. The distribution is typically as follows: five from African and Asian states; one from Eastern European states; two from Latin American and Caribbean states; and two from Western European and other states. The non-permanent members do not have veto power, but they play a crucial role in the UNSC's deliberations and decision-making processes. They bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, and their support is often essential for building consensus on important issues.

India's Historical Engagement with the UNSC

India has been a strong supporter of the United Nations since its inception. As a founding member, India has consistently championed the principles of multilateralism and a rules-based international order. India's commitment to the UN is rooted in its belief that global challenges require collective action and that the UN provides the best platform for addressing these challenges.

India's previous terms as a non-permanent member of the UNSC provide valuable context for understanding its current role and its potential impact on the Council's decisions. India has served on the UNSC in 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992, and 2011-2012. During these terms, India has actively participated in the Council's deliberations on a wide range of issues, including peacekeeping operations, conflict resolution, and counter-terrorism.

Notably, during its 1950-1951 term, India played a significant role in the Korean War. It served as a mediator between the warring parties and advocated for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. India's efforts contributed to the eventual armistice agreement that ended the war.

In subsequent terms, India has focused on promoting the interests of developing countries and advocating for a more equitable international order. It has also been a strong voice for disarmament and non-proliferation. During its 2011-2012 term, India prioritized issues such as maritime security, counter-terrorism, and UN reform.

These past experiences have shaped India's approach to the UNSC and have provided it with valuable insights into the complexities of international diplomacy and security. India's track record demonstrates its commitment to working constructively with other members of the Council to address global challenges.

India's Priorities and the 'NORMS' Framework

For its 2021-2022 term, India articulated a clear set of priorities, encapsulated in the acronym 'NORMS,' which stands for 'New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System.' This framework reflects India's vision for a more effective and representative UNSC, one that is better equipped to address the complex challenges of the 21st century. Each element of the 'NORMS' framework represents a key area of focus for India during its term.

The first element, New Opportunities, highlights India's commitment to promoting sustainable development and economic growth, particularly in developing countries. India recognizes that poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity can contribute to instability and conflict. Therefore, it seeks to use its position on the UNSC to advocate for policies that promote inclusive growth and create new opportunities for people around the world. This includes advocating for increased investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare in developing countries.

The second element, Effective Counter-Terrorism, underscores India's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms. India has been a victim of terrorism for many years and understands the devastating impact it can have on societies. Therefore, it prioritizes strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism, including through information sharing, capacity building, and the implementation of sanctions against terrorist groups and individuals. Given its chairmanship of key UNSC committees on counter-terrorism, India is well-positioned to advance this agenda.

The third element, Reforming Multilateral Systems, reflects India's long-standing advocacy for UN reform, particularly the expansion of the UNSC to include more developing countries as permanent members. India believes that the current structure of the UNSC is outdated and does not reflect the realities of the 21st century. It argues that expanding the UNSC would make it more representative, legitimate, and effective. India also supports reforms to other UN bodies to make them more accountable and responsive to the needs of member states.

The fourth element, Comprehensive Approach to Peace and Security, emphasizes the need to address the root causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, and lack of good governance. India recognizes that military intervention alone is not enough to achieve lasting peace and security. It advocates for a holistic approach that combines security measures with development assistance, political dialogue, and reconciliation efforts. This includes promoting good governance, strengthening democratic institutions, and protecting human rights.

The fifth element, Technology with a Human Touch, highlights the importance of harnessing technology for the benefit of humanity while mitigating its potential risks. India recognizes that technology can be a powerful tool for development, but it can also be used to spread misinformation, incite violence, and undermine democracy. Therefore, it advocates for responsible innovation and the development of ethical frameworks for the use of technology. This includes promoting digital literacy, protecting privacy, and combating cybercrime.

The 'Five-S' Approach: Guiding Principles for India's UNSC Term

To guide its actions and interactions within the UNSC, India adopted the 'Five-S' approach, a set of guiding principles that reflect its values and priorities. These five 'S's – Samman (Respect), Samvad (Dialogue), Sahyog (Cooperation), Shanti (Peace), and Samriddhi (Prosperity) – represent India's commitment to a constructive and collaborative approach to international relations.

Samman (Respect) signifies India's belief in the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. India adheres to the principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and believes that all nations, regardless of their size or power, should be treated with dignity and respect. This principle underpins India's commitment to a rules-based international order and its opposition to unilateralism.

Samvad (Dialogue) underscores India's commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. India believes that dialogue is the most effective way to bridge differences, build trust, and find common ground. It actively promotes dialogue and engagement with all stakeholders, including those with whom it may have disagreements. This principle is reflected in India's efforts to promote regional cooperation and its engagement in various multilateral forums.

Sahyog (Cooperation) highlights India's belief in the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. India recognizes that no single country can solve these challenges alone and that collective action is essential. It actively seeks to build partnerships and alliances with other countries to address issues such as climate change, terrorism, and poverty. This principle is reflected in India's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and its participation in various international initiatives.

Shanti (Peace) signifies India's unwavering commitment to peace and non-violence. India has a long history of promoting peace and non-violence, both domestically and internationally. It believes that peace is essential for development and that violence is never the answer. This principle is reflected in India's commitment to peacekeeping operations and its efforts to promote conflict resolution.

Samriddhi (Prosperity) underscores India's commitment to promoting economic growth and development for all. India believes that prosperity is essential for peace and stability and that all countries should have the opportunity to improve the living standards of their citizens. It actively promotes trade, investment, and technology transfer to developing countries. This principle is reflected in India's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and its efforts to promote regional economic integration.

Chairing Key UNSC Committees: Counter-Terrorism and Sanctions

India's role in chairing three significant UNSC committees – the Counter-Terrorism Committee, the Taliban Sanctions Committee (1988 Sanctions Committee), and the Libya Sanctions Committee – provides it with a unique opportunity to shape the international agenda on these critical issues. These committees play a vital role in implementing UNSC resolutions and ensuring that sanctions are effectively enforced.

The Counter-Terrorism Committee, established in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, is responsible for monitoring the implementation of UNSC Resolution 1373, which requires all member states to take measures to prevent and suppress the financing of terrorism, criminalize terrorist activities, and deny safe haven to terrorists. As chair of this committee, India can play a leading role in strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. This includes promoting information sharing, providing technical assistance to member states, and ensuring that sanctions are effectively enforced against terrorist groups and individuals.

The Taliban Sanctions Committee (1988 Sanctions Committee) oversees the implementation of sanctions against individuals and entities associated with the Taliban who are threatening peace, stability, and security in Afghanistan. The committee maintains a list of individuals and entities subject to sanctions, including asset freezes, travel bans, and arms embargoes. As chair of this committee, India can play a crucial role in ensuring that sanctions are effectively enforced against the Taliban and that the group is held accountable for its actions. This is particularly important in the context of the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

The Libya Sanctions Committee oversees the implementation of sanctions related to Libya, including an arms embargo, travel bans, and asset freezes. The sanctions are intended to promote peace and stability in Libya and to prevent the proliferation of weapons. As chair of this committee, India can play a role in ensuring that sanctions are effectively enforced and that they contribute to a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Libya.

The Significance of UNSC Committee 1267

The UNSC Committee 1267, established in 1999, is of particular significance in the context of counter-terrorism efforts. This committee is responsible for imposing sanctions on individuals and entities associated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS). The committee maintains a list of individuals and entities subject to sanctions, including asset freezes, travel bans, and arms embargoes.

While India does not chair the 1267 Committee, its active participation and engagement are crucial. The committee's work is essential for disrupting the financing and operations of al-Qaeda and ISIS and for preventing them from carrying out terrorist attacks. India has been a strong advocate for the effective implementation of sanctions against these groups and has played a key role in identifying and listing individuals and entities associated with them.

Broader Implications for India's Foreign Policy

India's election to the UNSC has significant implications for its foreign policy. It enhances India's diplomatic standing and influence in international affairs, providing it with a platform to engage with other countries and promote its foreign policy objectives.

Politically, India's presence on the UNSC strengthens its claim to a permanent seat on the Council. India has long advocated for the expansion of the UNSC to include more developing countries as permanent members, arguing that the current structure is outdated and does not reflect the realities of the 21st century. Its successful tenure as a non-permanent member can bolster its case for permanent membership.

Diplomatically, the UNSC provides India with a valuable platform to engage with other countries on a wide range of issues. It allows India to build relationships with other member states, to share its perspectives on global challenges, and to work collaboratively to find solutions. This can enhance India's influence in international forums and strengthen its bilateral relationships with other countries.

From a security perspective, India's presence on the UNSC allows it to contribute to decisions concerning international peace and security, particularly in the fight against terrorism. As a victim of terrorism for many years, India has a strong interest in strengthening international cooperation in this area. Its membership on the UNSC provides it with a platform to advocate for effective counter-terrorism measures and to ensure that terrorist groups are held accountable for their actions.

Challenges and Opportunities

While India's election to the UNSC presents numerous opportunities, it also poses several challenges. India will need to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics and work effectively with other member states, including those with whom it may have disagreements.

One of the key challenges will be managing the relationship with China, a permanent member of the UNSC. India and China have a complex relationship, characterized by both cooperation and competition. They have overlapping interests in areas such as climate change and global trade, but they also have significant differences on issues such as border disputes and regional security. India will need to find ways to cooperate with China on issues of mutual concern while also standing firm on its core interests.

Another challenge will be managing the relationship with Pakistan, a neighboring country with whom India has a long history of conflict. India and Pakistan have fought several wars and continue to have disputes over issues such as Kashmir. India will need to find ways to manage its relationship with Pakistan in a way that promotes peace and stability in the region.

Despite these challenges, India's election to the UNSC provides it with a unique opportunity to shape international policy and contribute to global peace and security. By adhering to its 'NORMS' framework and its 'Five-S' approach, India can play a constructive role in addressing the complex challenges facing the world today.

UNSC Reform: A Persistent Pursuit

India's consistent advocacy for UNSC reform is a central theme in its engagement with the United Nations. The current structure of the Security Council, with its five permanent members holding veto power, is seen by many, including India, as anachronistic and unrepresentative of the contemporary world order. India argues that the UNSC needs to be expanded to include more developing countries as permanent members to reflect the growing importance of these nations in global affairs and to enhance the Council's legitimacy and effectiveness.

The call for UNSC reform is not new. It has been a recurring theme in international discussions for decades. Many countries, particularly those from the developing world, feel that the current structure of the UNSC is unfair and that it perpetuates the dominance of a few powerful nations. They argue that the veto power held by the permanent members can be used to block action on important issues and that it undermines the Council's ability to respond effectively to global challenges.

India's pursuit of a permanent seat on the UNSC is driven by several factors. First, India is one of the world's largest democracies and has a long history of contributing to international peace and security. It is a major player in the global economy and has a growing influence in international affairs. India believes that its size, its economic strength, and its commitment to multilateralism make it a natural candidate for a permanent seat on the UNSC.

Second, India argues that the UNSC needs to be more representative of the developing world. The current structure of the Council is dominated by Western powers, and India believes that it is important to include more voices from the developing world to ensure that the Council's decisions reflect the interests of all member states.

Third, India believes that UNSC reform is essential for enhancing the Council's effectiveness. The veto power held by the permanent members can often paralyze the Council, preventing it from taking action on important issues. India argues that expanding the Council and reducing the veto power would make it more responsive to global challenges.

India's efforts to secure a permanent seat on the UNSC have been met with mixed success. While there is broad support for UNSC reform in principle, there is little consensus on the specific details of how the Council should be expanded. Some countries support expanding the Council to include more permanent members, while others prefer to focus on increasing the number of non-permanent members. There is also disagreement over whether new permanent members should have veto power.

Despite these challenges, India remains committed to pursuing UNSC reform. It believes that it is essential for creating a more just and equitable international order. India will continue to work with other countries to build consensus on the way forward and to ensure that the UNSC is fit for purpose in the 21st century.

Counter-Terrorism Efforts: A Global Imperative

Counter-terrorism is a major focus of India's foreign policy, and its membership on the UNSC provides it with a valuable platform to advance this agenda. India has been a victim of terrorism for many years and understands the devastating impact it can have on societies. It believes that terrorism is a global threat that requires a coordinated international response.

India's approach to counter-terrorism is multifaceted. It includes strengthening international cooperation, disrupting terrorist financing, preventing the spread of extremist ideologies, and protecting critical infrastructure. India also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of terrorism, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of good governance.

As chair of the Counter-Terrorism Committee, India can play a leading role in strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. This includes promoting information sharing, providing technical assistance to member states, and ensuring that sanctions are effectively enforced against terrorist groups and individuals.

India also actively participates in other international forums on counter-terrorism, such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF). It works with other countries to develop and implement effective counter-terrorism strategies and to share best practices.

India's counter-terrorism efforts are not limited to the international arena. It has also taken significant steps to strengthen its domestic counter-terrorism capabilities. This includes improving intelligence gathering, enhancing border security, and strengthening law enforcement.

India recognizes that counter-terrorism is a long-term challenge that requires a sustained and coordinated effort. It is committed to working with other countries to combat terrorism in all its forms and to create a safer and more secure world.

India-Pakistan Relations: A Complex Dynamic

The relationship between India and Pakistan is one of the most complex and challenging in the world. The two countries have a long history of conflict, dating back to the partition of India in 1947. They have fought several wars and continue to have disputes over issues such as Kashmir.

The Kashmir dispute is the primary source of tension between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim the region as their own, and the dispute has led to numerous conflicts and skirmishes. India accuses Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism in Kashmir, while Pakistan accuses India of human rights abuses in the region.

In addition to the Kashmir dispute, India and Pakistan also have differences over other issues, such as water sharing, trade, and nuclear weapons. They have engaged in numerous rounds of talks to resolve these issues, but progress has been limited.

India's approach to Pakistan is based on a combination of dialogue and deterrence. It seeks to resolve disputes through peaceful means, but it also maintains a strong military posture to deter any aggression from Pakistan. India has made it clear that it is willing to engage in dialogue with Pakistan, but only if Pakistan takes credible action to stop cross-border terrorism.

The relationship between India and Pakistan is further complicated by the involvement of other countries, such as China and the United States. China has close ties with Pakistan and has provided it with military and economic assistance. The United States has a strategic partnership with India and has expressed concerns about Pakistan's support for terrorism.

Managing the relationship with Pakistan is a major challenge for India's foreign policy. It requires a delicate balance of diplomacy and deterrence. India must find ways to engage with Pakistan while also protecting its own security interests.

Global Peace and Security: A Shared Responsibility

India's election to the UNSC underscores its commitment to global peace and security. India believes that peace and security are essential for development and that all countries have a shared responsibility to maintain them.

India's approach to global peace and security is based on the principles of multilateralism, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of disputes. It supports the UN Charter and believes that the UN is the best platform for addressing global challenges.

India actively participates in UN peacekeeping operations and has contributed troops to numerous missions around the world. It also supports efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts through diplomacy and mediation.

India recognizes that global peace and security are increasingly threatened by non-state actors, such as terrorist groups and criminal organizations. It supports efforts to strengthen international cooperation to combat these threats.

India also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of good governance. It believes that sustainable development is essential for creating a more peaceful and secure world.

India's commitment to global peace and security is reflected in its foreign policy and its engagement with the United Nations. It is committed to working with other countries to build a more just and equitable international order.

India's Long-Standing Involvement in the UN System

India has been a member of the United Nations since its inception in 1945 and has consistently supported the UN's goals and principles. As a founding member, India played a significant role in drafting the UN Charter and has actively participated in the UN's activities ever since.

India's commitment to the UN is rooted in its belief that global challenges require collective action and that the UN provides the best platform for addressing these challenges. India has consistently championed the principles of multilateralism and a rules-based international order.

India's involvement in the UN system extends beyond its membership in the General Assembly and the Security Council. It also participates in numerous other UN bodies and agencies, such as the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Human Rights Council, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

India has been a strong supporter of UN peacekeeping operations and has contributed troops to numerous missions around the world. It has also played a leading role in promoting sustainable development and addressing climate change.

India's long-standing involvement in the UN system reflects its commitment to international cooperation and its belief in the importance of a strong and effective United Nations.

Future Outlook: Shaping International Policy

India's term on the UNSC provides it with a significant opportunity to shape international policy on key issues and to strengthen its relationships with other countries. India's success will depend on its ability to build consensus and work effectively with other UNSC members.

India's 'NORMS' framework and its 'Five-S' approach provide a clear roadmap for its engagement with the UNSC. By adhering to these principles, India can play a constructive role in addressing the complex challenges facing the world today.

India's priorities for its UNSC term include promoting sustainable development, combating terrorism, reforming multilateral systems, addressing the root causes of conflict, and harnessing technology for the benefit of humanity. These are all important issues that require a coordinated international response.

India's success on the UNSC will also depend on its ability to manage its relationships with other key players, such as China, the United States, and Pakistan. These relationships are complex and require careful diplomacy.

Despite the challenges, India's term on the UNSC provides it with a unique opportunity to enhance its diplomatic standing and influence in international affairs. By working constructively with other member states, India can play a leading role in shaping international policy and contributing to global peace and security.