Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
Q4. “The UN Security Council remains structurally frozen in a post-1945 order”. Critically examine the need for permanent membership expansion. Discuss the case for including India and Global South representation. Suggest steps to democratise the Council’s composition. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question:
Growing global calls for UNSC reforms amidst increasing geopolitical tensions, veto misuse, and exclusion of emerging powers like India and the Global South.Key demand of the question:
The question demands a critical examination of why the UNSC’s current structure is outdated, analysis of India and Global South’s claim for permanent membership, and suggestions to democratise UNSC composition.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Mention how UNSC’s composition reflects post-World War II realities, not today’s multipolar world.Body
- Critically examine the need for expansion due to ineffectiveness, lack of representation, and legitimacy crisis.
- Discuss India’s credentials (economy, peacekeeping, diplomacy) and the Global South’s growing role and vulnerabilities.
- Suggest reforms like equitable expansion, veto restraint, charter amendments, and rotating seats.
Conclusion
Reaffirm that a restructured UNSC is essential for fairness, legitimacy, and effective global governance.
