Hindu Editorial Analysis : 6-May-2023
The United Nations (UN) has faced criticism for its limited ability to address conflicts in countries like Sudan, Syria, and Myanmar. To tackle these issues effectively, it is imperative to implement reforms within the UN system. This essay explores the demand for UN reforms, the changing world order, the need for equity, inclusivity, and mitigation of new threats. It also examines the challenges in implementing these reforms and outlines potential ways forward.
Demand for Reform:
Reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) involves addressing five key issues:
- Categories of membership
- The question of the veto power held by the five permanent members
- Regional representation
- The size of an enlarged Council and its working methods
- The Security Council-General Assembly relationship
Changing World Order:
The composition of the Security Council has undergone only one change in its 77-year history. In 1963, the Council was expanded from 11 to 15 members by adding four non-permanent seats. However, the world has since witnessed significant geopolitical shifts and changes in economic responsibilities among countries. To adapt to this evolving world order, reforming the Security Council becomes necessary.
Equitable World Order:
Promoting an equitable world order is crucial to upholding democratic principles at the global level. Inclusivity is essential, particularly for developing countries such as those in Africa, to become stakeholders in multilateral institutions and participate in decision-making processes. Such inclusivity fosters a sense of fairness and ensures that diverse perspectives are taken into account.
Mitigation of New Threats:
The multilateral system must become more resilient and responsive to address rising protectionism, increased incidents of terrorism, and the threats posed by climate change. Reforms within the UN can enhance its capacity to effectively tackle these challenges.
Implementation of Reforms:
Agreement of Members:
Any reform of the Security Council would require the agreement of at least two-thirds of UN member states in a vote in the General Assembly, and it must be ratified by two-thirds of Member States. All permanent members of the UNSC, including those with veto rights, must also agree to the reforms.
Expansion:
Expanding the Security Council, both in permanent and non-permanent categories, and reforming its working methods is necessary to enhance its representation, legitimacy, and effectiveness.
Issues:
Unchecked Conflicts:
The UN has faced criticism for its inability to effectively address conflicts in countries like Sudan, Syria, and Myanmar. Some countries and non-state actors benefit from the conflict economy by engaging in activities such as money laundering, arms sales, fuel supply, and resource exploitation. In contrast, the UN has played significant roles in diplomatic efforts concerning the former Yugoslavia, Rwanda, and the Middle East in the past.
Unable to Discharge Basic Functions:
The Security Council’s ability to fulfill its fundamental function is hindered when one of its permanent members attacks a neighboring country. Despite being the body responsible for taking action against aggression, the veto power prevents the Security Council from acting. For instance, Russia, a permanent member, attacked Ukraine in 2022 and vetoed resolutions related to the conflict.
Challenges:
Lack of Political Will:
While there is a general consensus on the need for change, different countries hold varying perceptions regarding the extent of reforms required. This lack of political will hampers progress in implementing necessary changes.
Coffee Club:
The “Coffee Club,” an informal group of mostly middle-sized states opposing the concentration of permanent seats in the hands of larger regional powers, has impeded UN Security Council reforms for the past six years.
Chinese Opposition:
China’s opposition to India’s bid for a permanent seat in the Security Council has hindered progress in expanding permanent memberships.
Why In News
Addressing the Gaps: Critiques of the United Nations’ Limited Intervention in Conflict Zones like Sudan, Syria, and Myanmar. Despite the UN’s efforts, the unchecked nature of these conflicts has drawn substantial criticism, calling for a more robust approach to ensure peace and stability.
MCQs about The Imperative of UN Reforms for Global Stability
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Which key demand for reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) ?
A. Reducing the number of permanent members
B. Expanding the use of veto power
C. Ensuring regional representation
D. Increasing the size of the General Assembly
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Why is it important to include developing countries in the decision-making process of multilateral institutions?
A. To maintain the status quo and avoid change
B. To promote a more equitable world order
C. To consolidate power among a few nations
D. To discourage international cooperation
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What is a major challenge hindering UN Security Council reforms?
A. Lack of political will among member states
B. Overwhelming support for reforms from all member states
C. Unanimous agreement on expanding permanent memberships
D. Absence of conflicts that require UN intervention
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Why do conflicts like those in Sudan, Syria, and Myanmar often go unchecked at the United Nations?
A. Lack of awareness about these conflicts
B. Ineffectiveness of the UN Security Council
C. Limited resources available to the UN
D. Willful negligence by the member states
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