The Pact of the Future: A New Era for UN Security Council Reform

Understanding the Pact of the Future

The "Pact of the Future" is a significant document that was adopted by world leaders during the UN Summit held in September 2024. This pact is centered around the urgent need for reform within the UN Security Council (UNSC) and aims to rectify historical injustices in representation.

Groundbreaking Aspects of the Pact

This document is considered groundbreaking as it marks the first instance where a UN Summit document includes a detailed paragraph dedicated to Security Council reform. This is seen as a pivotal moment that could lead to tangible changes in the future.

Key Points of the Pact on Security Council Reform

• It emphasizes the need to address historical injustices, particularly those affecting Africa.
• The pact advocates for improved representation of under-represented regions, including the Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
• There is a proposal to enlarge the Security Council, making it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable.

India's Reaction to the Pact

India has responded positively to the "Pact of the Future," viewing it as a "good beginning." Indian leaders express optimism regarding the potential for text-based negotiations to occur within a fixed timeframe, aiming for actual reforms to take shape.

India's Stance on Security Council Reform

India has consistently advocated for a permanent seat on the Security Council. This position is supported by its significant contributions to global peacekeeping, its large population, and its increasing economic and political influence. The country emphasizes a text-based approach to ensure that the expansion of the Council occurs within a defined timeline.

The Current Structure of the Security Council

The UNSC currently consists of 15 members, including five permanent members who possess veto power: China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US. Additionally, there are 10 non-permanent members who are elected for two-year terms.

Conclusion

The adoption of the "Pact of the Future" signifies a potential turning point in the long-stalled efforts to reform the UN Security Council. It highlights the necessity for improved representation from under-represented regions and promotes greater inclusivity in decision-making processes. For India, a strong proponent of reform, this development is viewed as a constructive step toward achieving its aspiration for a permanent seat on the Council. The inclusion of a detailed paragraph on Security Council reform within the summit document stands as a landmark achievement, reflecting a growing consensus on the need for change. Although challenges persist, the Pact lays down a framework for future negotiations, providing hope for a more representative, effective, and legitimate Security Council.