EAM Jaishankar Critiques UN on 80th Anniversary, Calls for Stronger Multilateralism
New Delhi, Oct 24 (TheTrendingPeople.com): Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday highlighted the challenges facing the United Nations, stating that “all is not well” within the organization and that its decision-making often fails to address pressing global priorities. His remarks came during the launch of a postage stamp commemorating the 80th anniversary of the UN in New Delhi.
The EAM recalled the sacrifices of Indian UN peacekeepers and spoke about the recently held Chiefs of Army Staff conclave in New Delhi, which saw participation from 30 troop-contributing countries.
Critique of UN Functioning
Jaishankar emphasized that the UN’s processes are increasingly polarized and gridlocked, noting, “Its debates have become increasingly polarised and its working visibly gridlocked. Its decision-making neither reflects its membership nor addresses global priorities.”
He cited the UN Security Council’s handling of terrorism as a key example of systemic flaws. Referring to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Jaishankar pointed out that a Security Council member shielded the terror group responsible for the atrocity, questioning the credibility of multilateralism.
“Any meaningful reform is obstructed using the reform process itself. Few examples are more telling about the challenges facing the UN than its response to terrorism,” he said.
Global South and Development Concerns
The Minister highlighted that conflicts and stalled multilateral actions have disproportionately affected the Global South. He criticized the slowing of the SDG Agenda 2030, noting that “the predicament of development and socioeconomic progress is even more serious” when international institutions fail to act effectively.
He also raised concerns about global trade measures, supply chain dependencies, and political domination, emphasizing that these issues underscore the urgency of reform.
India’s Commitment to Multilateralism
Despite the criticisms, Jaishankar reiterated India’s unwavering support for the UN and multilateral cooperation. He said, “However flawed, the United Nations must be supported in this time of crisis. Our faith in international cooperation must be reiterated and indeed renewed.”
The EAM stressed that India remains committed to peacekeeping and international security. He said that conflicts around the world continue to take a heavy toll on human lives, particularly in developing nations, while more developed countries often remain insulated from consequences.
“On UN Day, I would like to reiterate India's commitment to the ideals of peace and security as well as development and progress. India has always been and will continue to be a strong votary of the United Nations and indeed of multilateralism,” he added.
UN Day Commemoration
The postage stamp launched on Friday celebrates the 80th anniversary of the UN and honors India’s contributions to global peace through its peacekeeping missions. Jaishankar noted that the stamp captures the essence of India’s commitment to the UN and multilateral initiatives.
Implications
Jaishankar’s candid remarks signal India’s push for structural reforms within the UN, emphasizing that international cooperation must evolve to address terrorism, conflict, and socioeconomic challenges more effectively. His address also underscores India’s leadership role in advocating multilateralism, particularly in the context of protecting the interests of the Global South.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
As the UN marks 80 years of global service, India’s position reflects a balance of constructive criticism and continued engagement. While highlighting challenges in decision-making and terrorism response, Jaishankar’s message reinforces that multilateral institutions must adapt to meet contemporary global challenges while staying true to the founding principles of peace, security, and development.
