In a powerful address at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer threw his weight behind Indias bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). His endorsement follows similar calls from US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, signaling growing international support for Indias inclusion in the UNSC.During his speech, Starmer stressed the need for a reformed Security Council, stating, “The Security Council has to change to become a more representative body, willing to act – not paralysed by politics.” He further emphasized the necessity of expanding the Council, highlighting permanent representation for Africa, as well as Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany, alongside additional seats for elected members.Global push for Indias inclusionThe UKs support comes just a day after US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron advocated for Indias inclusion in the UNSC during their respective addresses to the General Assembly. Biden reaffirmed this stance during his bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Wilmington, Delaware, on September 21.Macron, in his speech, also called for broader reforms to the UN, endorsing not only India but also Brazil, Japan, Germany, and two African nations. He stated, “Lets make the UN more efficient. We need to make it more representative, and thats why France is in favour of expanding the Security Council. Germany, Japan, India, and Brazil should be permanent members, along with two representatives from Africa.”Current UNSC structureThe United Nations Security Council currently comprises five permanent members - Russia, the United Kingdom, China, France, and the United States, each of whom holds veto power over substantive resolutions. Additionally, the Council includes 10 non-permanent members, elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms.As momentum grows for UNSC reform, the recent backing from three major global powers - US, UK, and France marks a significant moment in Indias long-standing quest for permanent membership.
