U.K. backs permanent seat in UNSC for India

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Last Updated01/10/2024

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined the leaders of the United States and France in backing India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), endorsed India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
He advocated for reforming the global multilateral system, emphasizing the need for a more representative and responsive Security Council that is not "paralysed by politics."

Mr. Starmer highlighted the importance of making the UNSC more inclusive, calling for permanent representation not only for India, but also for Africa, Brazil, Japan, and Germany. He also pitched for increasing the number of elected seats on the Council. The proposal aims to reflect contemporary global realities and ensure fairer outcomes.
In his address, Starmer stressed that the UNSC must evolve to be a body capable of taking decisive action, not hindered by political divisions.

This endorsement from the UK follows similar statements by French President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President Joe Biden, both of whom also support India's inclusion as a permanent member of the UNSC.
Macron echoed Starmer’s sentiments, suggesting that the UNSC should include permanent representation for Africa, India, Brazil, Japan, and Germany. Biden reiterated the U.S. position in favour of expanding the UNSC’s permanent membership.

India has long pushed for UNSC reforms, arguing that the current structure, established in 1945, does not align with modern geopolitical dynamics.
As a growing global power with a significant role in international diplomacy, India contends that its inclusion is crucial for making the UNSC more relevant and representative.
India last served as a non-permanent member of the UNSC from 2021-22, and continues to call for reform of the Council’s composition to reflect contemporary global realities.

In addition to backing India's bid, Starmer outlined a change in the UK's approach to international relations. He emphasized a move from the “paternalism of the past” towards partnerships based on equal respect. He called for more listening and collaboration, signaling a shift in how the UK will engage with other nations.