UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during his address at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly on Thursday, expressed support for India becoming a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This comes after similar endorsements from US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Starmer called for a reformation of the UNSC, advocating for a more representative body that can act decisively, rather than being hindered by politics. He stated, “We want to see permanent African representation on the Council, Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany as permanent members, along with more seats for elected members.”
Currently, the UNSC comprises five permanent members Russia, the UK, China, France, and the US—who hold veto powers, and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
The UK PM’s comments echo French President Macron’s recent endorsement for India’s inclusion, along with Brazil, Japan, Germany, and two African nations. Macron emphasized the need for the UNSC to become more inclusive and representative.
US President Biden has also reiterated his support for India’s inclusion in the UNSC, reaffirming this stance during bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 21. This call for reform was further highlighted in a joint statement by leaders of the Quad (US, India, Japan, and Australia) at their recent summit.