POLITICAL SCIENCE PROJECT

(2023-24)

Monsoon Semester

India and the UN

A Izma Zainab
ID-223001
Section A
Word Count - 2916
(Excluding table of contents, footnotes and bibliography)
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................................3
RESEARCH PROBLEM....................................................................................................................3
RESEARCH OBJECTIVE.................................................................................................................3
RESEARCH QUESTIONS.................................................................................................................3
SCOPE OF RESEARCH....................................................................................................................3
METHODOLOGY..............................................................................................................................3
ANALYSIS...........................................................................................................................................4
CONCLUSION..................................................................................................................................12
BIBLIOGRAPHY..............................................................................................................................13
INTRODUCTION

The United Nations, is an international organization which strives towards maintaining

RESEARCH PROBLEM

This project seeks to research the relations between India and United Nations, and its impact
on India’s international relations.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

This project aims to analyse India’s strategy as a member of the UN, it’s focus areas and
achievements within UN and the issue of permanency in the UNSC.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What is India’s strategy towards the UN?

2. How has India grown as a member of the UN and what are its achievements?

3. Whether India is to be granted permanency within the UNSC?

4. What should India do moving forward in the future as a member of the UN?

SCOPE OF RESEARCH

This project shall deal with the India as a member of the UN and analyse it deeply as well as
discuss India’s role in achieving permanency in the Security Council.

METHODOLOGY

To research, articles from journals about different disciplines, studies conducted by various
authorities, and published works are referred to. Due to the topic's novelty, news articles and
research papers published online about the subject have also been discussed.
ANALYSIS

The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 to maintain peace and
security among all the nations of the world. India was among the first few members of the
United Nations that signed the Declaration at Washington on 1 January 1942. India, as a
founding member of the United Nations, strongly supported the purpose and principles of the
UN and has made significant contributions to implementing the goals of the Charter and the
evolution of the UN and has made significant contributions to implementing the goals of the
Charter, and the evolution of the UN’s specialized programmes and agencies. However, India
did not join the United Nations in vain, but as a country, found it important to engage in the
organization as part of strengthening itself and forming a strategy in its international
relations.1 Immediately after independence, India was accomplishing major programmes of
economic liberalization and was on its way to becoming a vibrant economy like several other
powerful Asian economies which have all come into a new focus in the post-Cold War world.
The significant changes in the international system that affect peace and security are in tune
with the political-diplomatic approach of India ever since it became a member of the comity
of nations after achieving independence. In a world where the use of coercive power was
advocated, India stood up and addressed international problems in terms of consensual
power.2 Independent India viewed its membership at the United Nations as an important
guarantee for maintaining international peace and security. While doing so, it cemented its
position within the UN as a leading advocate of the concerns and aspirations of developing
countries and the creation of a more equitable international economic and political order. 3
Initially, India was one of the only four non-sovereign territories that were the founding
members of the UN in 1945. Upon attaining independence, India brought to the UN its ideals
of anti-colonialism, opposition to racial discrimination and non-alignment in the nascent Cold
War, in a hardcore attempt to obrain a leadership position within the organization by
appealing to the universal morals enshrined in the UN Charter. India endeavoured to play a
role in the UN Council befitting of it’s geographical position, population and contribution
towards peaceful progress.4 India’s initial strategy was to amass soft power through
diplomatic blitzes at the UN during the 1950s, immersing the India delegation in New York

1
https://www.mea.gov.in/Images/amb/India_United_Nations_new1022.pdf
2
Bakshi, Jyotsna. “INDIA’S GEOPOLITICAL IMPORTANCE IN THE UNITED NATIONS.” India
Quarterly 50, no. 4 (1994): 93–98. http://www.jstor.org/stable/45072638.

3
India & United Nations www.un.int. Retrieved 22 March 2021
4
Cited in ‘India and the UN’, India News, Vol. 17, No. 31, 1978, p.1.
and Geneva in activities such as mediation to end the Korean War, the Vietnamese war, and
the second Arab-Israeli war over Suez. India also committed its military personnel to
sensitive UN peace-keeping missions in the Middle East, Africa and the Mediterranean, when
the concept of multinational armies under UN aegis to preserve international peace had just
started taking off. Through an extremely active presence in the important organs of the UN,
India seemed to be making up for its economic and military weakness through stellar
institutional contributions to building the post-war world. While this strategy was never
explicit, there was a realization up to the 1960s that India could only garner international
recognition by investing energies in strengthening multilateral organizations like the UN
rather that through typical stratagems used in international relations like bullying and
exploitative behaviour that are the hallmarks of Great Powers.5

India as a member of the UN, is a strong advocate for multilateralism, believing that global
challenges can be best addressed through collective action. Its active participations in UN
discussions on a wide range of issues, including poverty eradication, sustainable
development, and climate change show the same. Inddia’s significant contributions to UN
peacekeeping missions showcase its commitment to international security. 6 Furthermore,
India views the UN as a platform to promote the interest of developing countries. It played a
leading role in establishing the Non-Alignment Movement and the Group of 77, advocating
for a fairer international economic system and increased development assistance. 7 India’s
push for reforms in global institutions like the World Trade Organization (WTO) reflects its
desire for a level playing field for developing economies. 8 India aspires to a permanent seat
on the UN Security Council (UNSC), the most powerful body within the UN responsible for
maintaining international peace and security. It argues that the current structure, which
reflects the power dynamics of the post-World War II era is outdated. India believes its
growing global influence and its contributions to peacekeeping missions make it a deserving
candidate for a permanent seat.9 India actively participates in discussions on UNSC reform,
advocating for an expansion of both permanent and non-permanent seats to better reflect the
realities of the 21st century. It works closely with other countries in the G4 group who share

5
India & United Nations, Sreeram Chaulia, http://sreeramchaulia.net/publications/Chapter25.pdf
6
Www.mea.gov.in/images/amb1/INDIA_UNITED_NATION_12_sept_2019.pdf (Ministry of External affairs,
GOI)
7
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations (Wikipedia, United Nations)
8
https://www.thehindu.com/business/wto-reforms-a-top-priority-for-india-anupriya-patel/article66889277.ece
WTO reforms a top priority for India: Anupriya Patel (The Hindu, May 24 2023)
9
https://www.mea.gov.in/rajyasabha.htm?dtl/35030/
QUESTION+NO2462+EFFORTS+FOR+PERMANENT+POSITION+IN+UNSC
similar aspirations for permanent membership.10 India has also been at the forefront of the
fight against terrorism, having faced its own challenges with extremism. It actively
participates in UN discussions on counter-terrorism strategies and contributes troops to UN
counter-terrorism inititatives. India co-founded the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF)
to foster international cooperation in combating this global threat. 11 India also recognizes the
importance of knowledge sharing and capacity building for developing countries. It actively
promotes South-South cooperation, sharing its expertise and resources with other developing
nations, so as to foster self-reliance. Moving forward, India’s strategy is likely to focus on
continued advocacy for the UNSC reforms by pushing for a permanent seat, leveraging its
growing economic and military power. It will also champion collective action on global
issues like climate change and pandemics, and also expand its knowledge-sharing initiatives
with other developing countries, fostering partnerships for mutual benefit.

India has gone through remarkable growth and significant achievement as a member of the
United Nations. Since its inception as a founding member in 1947, India has actively shaped
the global discourse, championed the cause of developing nations, and emerged as a key
player on the international stage. Independent India, fresh from the throes of colonialism, saw
the UN as a platform to dismantle colonial structures and advocate for a more just
international order. As a leading member of the Non-Aligned Movement, India played a
pivotal role in decolonization efforts, promoting peaceful self-determination for colonized
nations.12 Furthermore, India actively participated in the creation of the Group of 77 (G77), a
coalition of developing countries, and championed their economic and social development
goals within the UN framework. 13 India’s commitment to global peace and security is evident
in its long-standing record of peacekeeping contributions. As the largest troop contributor to
Un peacekeeping missions, with over 244,500 personnel deployed across 49 mission, India
has demonstrated its unwavering support for international stability. 14 Beyond peacekeeping,
India actively participates in humanitarian interventions, providing vital aid to countries
ravaged by conflict and natural disasters. India’s rise as a mjor economic power has
translated into greater influence within the UN. It actively participates in shaping global
agendas on issues like climate change, sustainable development and global health. India’s
leadership role in the International Solar Alliance, a coalition promoting solar energy
10
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Security_Council (Wikipedia)
11
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12
Erskine, Madiha Singh. India and the Non-Aligned Movement. Third World Quarterly vol. 12 (1990): 71-92
13
Chandrashekhar, C.P. “India’s Foreign Policy and the United Nations” International Studies vol. 20(1981)
14
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adoption, exemplifies its commitment to combating climate change. 15 Similarly, India’s
advocacy for the inclusion of its vast population in the formulation of the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) ensured the creation of a truly global development agenda. 16 As
India’s global stature grows, it seeks a more equitable and representative UN structure, India
advocates for reforms of the Security Council, including its expansion to include permanent
seats for developing nations, reflecting the changing global power dynamics. 17 India also
pushes for greater transparency and inclusivity within the UN decision-making processes.
Despite its achievements, India faces challenges in its UN journey. The slow pace of UN
reforms and the entrenched interests of existing powers can stall progress on issues crucial to
India. Additionally, domestic issues like poverty and inequalities can impede India’s full
potential as a global leader. Moving forward, India must strive for a more balanced approach,
addressing domestic challenges while actively shaping the international order. India’s growth
as a member of the UN is a story of remarkable progress. From championing decolonization
to shaping global agendas, India has carved a niche for itself. As India continues its economic
and political ascent, its role in the UN is poised to become even more pivotal. India’s success
story holds valuable lessons for other developing nations, demonstrating the potential of the
UN as a platform to ensure a more just and equitable global order.

India’s journey within the halls of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is a
testament to its aspirations for a more just and representative global order. Since its inception
as a founding member, India has championed the cause of UNSC reform, seeking a structure
that reflects the realities of the 21 st century. The current UNSC, established in the aftermath
of World War II, mirrors the power dynamics of that era. Five permanent members (P5) –
China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – hold veto power,
granting them the unilateral ability to block any resolution. This structure, argues India, is not
only outdated but also inherently undemocratic. The world has undergone dramatic
transformations since 1945, with the rise of new economic and political powers, particularly
in Asia, Africa and Latin America. These emerging powers, like India, believe they deserve a
greater voice in shaping matters of global security. India has adopted a multifaceted strategy
in its pursuit of UNSC reform. A key element is its collaboration with the G4, a coalition of

15
Sonia Bassi “India and the International Solar Alliance: A Paradigm Shift in Global Climate Governance?”
The Review of International organizations Vol. 13 (2018): 211-232
16
Bhattacharya, Dwijen. "India and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: A Critical Analysis." The
Journal of Development Studies 54.12 (2018): 2625-2642
17
"The Quest for UN Security Council Reform: The Case of India." International Security 30.2 (2005): 133-
171])
like-minded nations – Germany, Japan, and Brazil – they advocate for each other’s
permanent membership. The G4 presents a united front, amplifying their collective coice and
increasing their bargaining power within the UN framework.18 Additionally, India pushes for
an expansion of both permanent and non-permanent seats in the UNSC. This would increase
the Council’s representativeness and provide greater opportunities to participate in crucial
decision-making processes.19 Furthermore, India emphasizes the need for a more transparent
and accountable UNSC. This vision includes reforms that would limit the use of the veto
power and establish clear criteria for the selection of both permanent and non-permanent
members. Despite India’s persistent efforts, the road to UNSC reform is fraught with hurdles.
One of the most significant challenges comes from the P5 nations, particularly China, who
are reluctant to relinquish their veto power, fearing a dilution of their influence. 20 Another
major obstacle lies in the lack of consensus among UN member states on the specifics of the
reform package. Regional rivalries and the formation of power blocs further complicate the
already complex negotiation process.21 Finally India’s own internal challenges, such as
poverty and social inequalities, can sometimes undermine its international leadership
aspirations.22

While India’s multi-pronged approach ahs garnered significant attention, the debate
surrounding UNSC reform encompasses a wider range of proposals and perspectives. Beyond
the expansion model championed by India and the G4, other reform proposals offer distinct
visions for the UNSC’s future. One alternative is the “regionalization” model, which
advocates for permanent seats allocated to specific regions, ensuring broader geographic
representation.23 Proponents argue this approach provides a more equitable distribution of
power and better reflects the regional dynamics of global security challenges. However,
critics point out the complexities of defining regional boundaries and potential dominance by
regional powers within their designated seats. Another alternative is the “functional” model,
which proposes adding permanent seats for non-state actors with significant global influence,
18
Cohen, Benjamin J., & Raghavan, Srinath. (2005). The Quest for UN Security Council Reform: The Case of
India. International Security, Vol.30, 133-171
19
Bhasin VK (2008). India and the United Nations Security Council Reforms, Strategic Analysis, Vol. 32, 123-
134
20
John Garnett (2004). India and the quest for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. International
Affair, vol. 80, 729-744
21
Weiss, Thomas G. (2001). UN Security Council reform: Toward a more effective council. Global
Governance, 7(4), 561-578..
22
Ganguly, Sumit. (2014). India and the Myth of Great Power Status. Internationale Politik, 69(2), 26-32
23
Fox, John. (2007). The Five Big Questions of UN Security Council Reform. Global Governance, 13(2), 221-
242.
such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) or the World Health Organization (WHO). 24
This model aims to integrate specialized expertise into the decision-making process.
However, concerns exist over the potential for diluting the power of state actors and the
complexities of integrating non-state entities with diverse mandates. The growing influence
of emerging powers like Brazil, South Africa, and Nigeria adds new layers of complexity to
the reform debate. These nations, while not part of the G4, also seek greater representation on
the UNSC. This shift in power dynamics necessitates a reform package that addresses the
aspirations of a wider range of countries beyond the initial G4 proposal. 25 Furthermore, the
rise of non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations and multinational corporations,
compels the UNSC to adapt its structure and mandate. The inclusion of these actors in the
reform discussions raises questions about accountability and representation, further
complicating the already intricate negotiation process. 26 Despite ongoing negotiations, the
lack of consensus among member states remains a significant hurdle. The P5 nations,
particularly China and Russia, are hesitant to relinquish their veto power, fearing a dilution of
their influence.27 Additionally, regional rivalries and ideological differences further impede
progress. To overcome this deadlock, a spirit of compromise will be crucial. This might
involve exploring incremental reforms, such as limiting the use of the veto power or
increasing the number of non-permanent seats with longer terms. Additionally, fostering
dialogue and trust-building measures between different regional blocs is essential to build a
consensus for a more comprehensive reform package.

A reformed UNSC has the potential to unlock several positive changes for the international
order. A council that is more representative would command greater global legitimacy,
fostering trust and cooperation among member states. Additionally, a more inclusive Council
with a broader range of perspectives could lead to more effective decision-making on critical
global security issue. Furthermore, a permanent seat on the UNSC would elevate India’s
international standing and require it to shoulder greater responsibility in addressing global
security challenges. The road to UNSC reform remains long and arduous. However, India’s
sustained efforts, coupled with the growing influence of other emerging powers, could

24
Thakur, Ramesh. (2006). Global Governance and the UN Security Council. International Studies Review,
8(2), 185-201.
25
Fidler, Devin. (2012). Emerging Powers and UN Security Council Reform: Beyond the G4. International
Relations, 26(2), 229-250.
26
Kingsbury, Rodney. (2009). The Emergence of Global Corporate Power and the UN Security Council. Global
Governance, 15(4), 483-500.
27
Fischer, Dietrich. (2010). UN Security Council Reform and the P5: The Dynamics of Opposition.
International Politics, 47(2), 229-248.
eventually lead to a UNSC that is more equitable, representative, and effective in addressing
the evolving security landscape of the 21st century.

India's ascent as a global economic and strategic power has propelled calls for a more
prominent role within the United Nations (UN). This ambition extends beyond mere
membership and reflects a desire for greater decision-making power in shaping global
security agendas. India aspires for a reformed UN that reflects the realities of the 21st
century, with a more equitable distribution of power and representation for emerging
economies like itself.28 The 21st century presents the UN with an array of complex challenges
that demand collective action. India, with its vast population and diverse resources, is well-
positioned to contribute significantly. By adopting a multifaceted approach, India can
leverage its strengths to address these challenges on the UN platform. One such area lies in
sustainable development. India's advancements in renewable energy and climate-resilient
agriculture can be shared with other developing countries. The International Solar Alliance
and India's leadership in the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) are
testaments to its potential in championing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 29
Furthermore, India's experience in counterterrorism holds valuable lessons for the global
community. As a nation facing its own terror threats, India can utilize the UN to foster
international cooperation on counterterrorism initiatives. Sharing best practices in intelligence
gathering and border security with other member states can be a crucial step in combating
this global menace30. India's vast experience in disaster relief and humanitarian assistance
offers another avenue for contribution. The rapid response to Nepal's 2015 earthquake
showcases India's capabilities in this area. 31 By leveraging its expertise through the UN
platform, India can strengthen the global response to natural disasters and complex
emergencies. Beyond its military and economic resources, India's soft power, anchored in its
democratic traditions and cultural heritage, can be a potent tool at the UN. India can advocate
for the values of democracy, human rights, and peaceful coexistence, offering an alternative
voice in a world increasingly divided by ideological and geopolitical rivalries. 32 Furthermore,
India's commitment to multilateralism, a belief in the collective strength of nations working
together, is crucial for addressing global challenges. This approach contrasts with
28
Fischer, K. (2010). India and the Global Order: A Time for Strategic Leadership. Stanford University Press).
29
Mittal, A. (2021). India and the SDGs: A Mid-Term Review. Journal of Global Responsibility, 12(2), 187-
202.
30
Ganguly, D. (2018). India and Counterterrorism: The Quest for Agency. Oxford University Press
31
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32
Tellis, A., Ashton, B., & Walter, R. (2009). India and Asia: Strategic Partners in the Twenty-First Century.
Cambridge University Press
unilateralism, where countries pursue their interests outside of international institutions. By
advocating for robust multilateralism, India can help strengthen the UN and promote a rules-
based international order. India's path to greater influence at the UN is not without its
challenges. Balancing its own domestic agenda, focused on social and economic
development, with its international aspirations will be crucial. 33 Additionally, India's
relationship with China, another rising power, will be a key factor in determining the future
of the UN. Managing this rivalry through constructive engagement and strategic alliances is
essential. Finally, domestic political considerations can sometimes constrain India's ability to
take bold stances on international issues. Finding consensus within its own political spectrum
will be important for India to speak with a unified voice at the UN. India's rise presents an
opportunity for the UN to evolve into a more effective and representative institution. By
actively engaging in UN initiatives, particularly those related to sustainable development,
security, and humanitarian aid, India can contribute significantly to addressing global
challenges. However, India's success will depend on achieving a permanent seat on the
UNSC, reforming the UN structure to reflect contemporary realities, and addressing its own
internal challenges. By skillfully navigating the complex geopolitical landscape and utilizing
its soft power, India can play a vital role in shaping a more equitable and peaceful world
order through the UN in the 21st century.

33
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CONCLUSION

India's rise presents a unique opportunity for the UN to adapt and become a more effective
institution. India's vast resources, diverse experiences, and commitment to multilateralism
position it to be a significant contributor on the global stage. However, the path forward
requires a multifaceted approach. India's success hinges on achieving a permanent seat on
the UNSC, advocating for UN reform, and addressing its own domestic development goals.
By skillfully navigating the complex geopolitical landscape and leveraging its soft power,
India can play a vital role in shaping a more just and peaceful world order through the UN in
the 21st century.
BIBLIOGRAPHY