India calls out attempts to introduce new parameters such as religion, faith as basis for representation in reformed UNSC

India has called out attempts to introduce new parameters such as religion and faith as the basis for representation in a reformed UN Security Council, asserting that this runs completely counter to the accepted basis of regional representation.

- YOSHITA SINGH

India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador P Harish told the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) meeting on 'Size of the Future Council and cluster discussion on Regional Representation’ that those opposed to text-based negotiations do not seek progress on UNSC reforms.

"Attempts to introduce new parameters, such as religion and faith, as the basis for representation in a reformed Council runs completely counter to regional representation, which has been the accepted basis for representation in the UN,” Harish said in remarks made in his national capacity.

He added that the argument that an expanded and reformed Security Council would not be efficient is an attempt to stall real reforms.

"A reformed Council, with appropriate working methods and accountability mechanisms, would be equipped to function effectively and deliver meaningfully on pressing global issues,” he said.

India asserted that a consolidated model that does not cover expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent categories, would not achieve the purpose of reform, further entrenching the status quo.

Before making the remarks in his national capacity, Harish delivered a statement on behalf of the G4 nations of Brazil, Germany, Japan and India, in which the grouping underscored that regional representation is an accepted practice that has stood the test of time in the UN.

"Proposals to introduce new parameters, such as religious affiliation run counter to established UN practice and add considerable complexity to an already difficult discussion,” the G4 said.