During the United Nations General Assembly’s seventy-ninth session in New York, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed strong support for India’s bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). His endorsement comes shortly after similar statements from U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, signaling a growing consensus among major nations regarding the need for UNSC reform.
Starmer emphasized the necessity for the UNSC to evolve into a “more representative body,” pointing out that the current structure—comprised of five permanent members (the U.S., UK, Russia, China, and France) and 10 non-permanent members—no longer reflects the geopolitical realities of the modern world. He argued for the inclusion of permanent representation from Africa, as well as Brazil, Japan, Germany, and India.
“We want to see permanent African representation on the Council, Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany as permanent members, and more seats for elected members as well,” Starmer stated, underlining the urgency for reform.
The call for change was echoed by French President Macron, who, earlier in the week, advocated for a more effective and representative Security Council. Macron noted that the current composition leads to gridlock, making it difficult for the UN to address global challenges effectively. He reiterated France’s support for expanding the UNSC to include countries like India, Germany, Japan, and Brazil, alongside representatives chosen by African nations.
These endorsements come at a critical time as India’s Ministry of External Affairs has been vocal about the need for reform in the UNSC, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasizing the importance of sustained pressure for India’s permanent seat. The growing support from influential leaders signals a potential shift in international diplomacy, as nations recognize the need for a Security Council that reflects current global dynamics and enhances its effectiveness in dealing with pressing global issues.