Zillar Barta Desk,New Delhi : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has called for comprehensive reforms in the United Nations, stressing that the global body must address its shortcomings, ensure broader representation in international decision-making and take a proactive leadership role in tackling global crises.
Speaking at the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Sunday, Jaishankar reiterated India's long-standing demand for “reformed multilateralism”. He said that the need for reform was becoming increasingly urgent as international conflicts and geopolitical challenges continued to affect countries across the world.
Emphasising the importance of collective international action, Jaishankar said the United Nations must recognise its institutional limitations and work towards improving its effectiveness.
He stressed that large sections of the international community could not continue to remain excluded from global decision-making processes. According to the minister, a more representative and responsive international system is essential to address the challenges facing the world today.
Jaishankar's remarks came during an event marking the 75th anniversary of the Chinmaya Mission and coinciding with United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24.
UN Resident Coordinator in India Stefan Priesner was also present at the gathering.
Referring to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, Jaishankar warned that the consequences of wars extend far beyond the countries directly involved.
He pointed out that distant societies and economies often bear the economic burden of conflicts through rising fuel and food prices, even when they have little influence over the circumstances driving those hostilities.
The minister emphasised that the international community could not remain helpless while ordinary people continued to face the consequences of global instability.
He reiterated India's position that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential to resolving conflicts and achieving lasting peace. Jaishankar also said India was making its own efforts and remained willing to work with international partners to support peaceful solutions.
Jaishankar's remarks reflected India's continuing push for reforms in the international governance system, including the United Nations Security Council.
India has consistently argued that global institutions must better reflect contemporary geopolitical realities and provide developing countries, particularly those belonging to the Global South, with a greater role in shaping international decisions.
The existing structure of global governance was established in the aftermath of the Second World War. India has maintained that the international system needs to evolve to reflect the interests and aspirations of a broader range of nations.
The minister's call for reformed multilateralism underscored the importance of ensuring that international institutions remain relevant, effective and inclusive in addressing modern challenges.
Reflecting on the founding principles of the United Nations, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of cooperation among nations in confronting shared challenges. He noted that the organisation was established after the Second World War to promote international cooperation and help countries work towards common objectives.
He emphasised that global challenges, whether related to security, economic stability or humanitarian concerns, could be addressed more effectively through collective efforts.
Jaishankar called on the international community to renew its commitment to cooperation while pursuing long-awaited reforms in global institutions.
His remarks reinforced India's position that the United Nations must move beyond responding to crises and play a more decisive role in preventing conflicts, promoting dialogue and strengthening international peace and security.
The minister's appeal has once again brought the question of UN reform into focus, particularly the need for a global decision-making system that reflects the realities of the 21st century and gives a wider range of nations a meaningful voice.
