What happened?
India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), P. Harish, called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) during a debate on peacekeeping operations. Harish argued that peacekeeping cannot be the sole solution to conflicts and must be backed by political resolutions. He highlighted India’s willingness to offer specialised peacekeeping training through the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK), which has trained peacekeepers for over two decades. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also emphasised the need for realistic mandates and viable exit strategies for peacekeeping missions.
Why it matters to India
India’s demand for UNSC reform aligns with its long-standing push for greater representation in global governance. With over 240,000 Indian personnel contributing to UN peacekeeping missions, India is a key stakeholder in peace operations. Reforming the UNSC to reflect current geopolitical realities would enhance India’s diplomatic influence and ensure its voice is heard on global security issues. By offering advanced peacekeeping training, India strengthens its position as a leader in peace operations, enhancing its soft power and credibility in multilateral forums.