UN Turns 80 in 2025 Amid Global Crises: India Ready for Greater Role
The United Nations (UN) is preparing to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2025 amidst a backdrop of persistent global conflicts, financial turmoil, and rising criticisms, particularly from former US President Donald Trump. Within this context, India has voiced its readiness to play a more prominent role, advocating for leadership and hope.
Current Global Challenges Facing the UN
– Ongoing Conflicts: The wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as crises in regions like Sudan and Myanmar, continue to underscore the UN’s struggles in resolving global issues.
– Humanitarian Emergencies: Nations worldwide are grappling with crises related to humanitarian aid, climate change, and economic inequality, raising concerns about the UN’s relevance in today’s rapidly changing world.
India Calls for Reformed Multilateralism
In September, during the UN General Assembly, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, highlighted the urgent need for reform within the UN, stating:
– Crisis State: Jaishankar pointed out that an “objective report card” of the UN reveals a state of crisis. He remarked, “When peace is under threat from conflicts, when development is derailed by lack of resources, and when human rights are violated, the UN remains gridlocked.”
– Expanded Security Council: India advocates for both permanent and non-permanent membership expansion in the UN Security Council (UNSC), with Jaishankar asserting, “A reformed Council must be truly representative. Bharat will do its fair share, and more.”
India’s Leadership in Counter-Terrorism
India has taken decisive steps in combating terrorism, notably through:
– Operation Sindoor: Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan, emphasizing its right to defend its citizens.
– International Accountability: During the attack’s aftermath, the UN Security Council condemned the act of terrorism and called for accountability of its perpetrators.
Calls for Security Council Reform
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has echoed India’s calls for reform, emphasizing the need for a more representative, transparent, and effective Security Council, highlighting a growing consensus on the necessity of change.
Challenges Ahead with Potential Criticism from the US
The UN’s 80th anniversary coincides with Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, marking a likely deterioration in relations:
– Deteriorating Relations: Trump, known for his critical stance towards the UN, previously labeled it as merely “a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time.”
– Policy Reversals: After resuming office, Trump quickly moved to withdraw the US from the Paris climate agreement again and suspended funding for various UN agencies.
Financial Constraints of the UN
Despite being the largest donor, the US curbed over $1 billion in contributions in 2025, resulting in considerable arrears for the UN:
– Financial Struggle: The UN ended 2024 with a staggering $1.6 billion in unpaid assessments. Guterres noted a pressing need for sustainable financing and efficient resource management to address global peace and prosperity challenges.
Conclusion: A New Era for the UN?
As the UN gears up for its 80th year, the call for reform resonates louder than ever, particularly from countries like India that are prepared to step into leadership roles. With increasing scrutiny and criticism from global leaders, the UN must adapt to meet the demands of a changing world. The upcoming anniversary serves as a pivotal point for the organization to not only reflect on its past but also to innovate for a more responsive future.