India has criticized political discord in the UN Security Council for undermining peacekeeping operations and is advocating for reforms, including more representative permanent membership with greater African inclusion.
In his first address to the Security Council, India’s new Permanent Representative, Parvathaneni Harish, highlighted that the lack of unity has negatively impacted peacekeeping. He called for the Security Council to better reflect current global realities, especially by including Africa.
Harish noted that over half of the Security Council’s work involves Africa. He referenced African nations’ demands from the Sirte Declaration and the Ezulwini Consensus for two permanent seats and three additional elected seats.
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Additionally, Harish suggested that the Council authorize African Union-led peace support operations. He emphasized the need for major troop-contributing countries to be involved in decision-making and addressed the increasing threats peacekeepers face, such as landmines and improvised explosive devices. He also advocated for technological advancements to improve peacekeeping efficiency.
The General Assembly has unanimously approved India’s resolution to establish a “Memorial Wall for Fallen United Nations Peacekeepers,” honoring over 4,000 peacekeepers, including 182 Indians who died in service.
Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, echoed concerns about geopolitical tensions eroding support for peacekeeping. He pointed out that peacekeeping missions are facing complex, borderless challenges like transnational crime and climate change, exacerbated by non-state actors using cheap technologies and spreading disinformation.