India’s persistent push for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is gaining significant momentum, backed by a growing list of international allies. The UNSC, tasked with maintaining global peace and security, currently consists of 15 members: five permanent (China, France, Russia, UK, US) with veto power and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. India argues that this structure, frozen in the post-World War II era, no longer reflects the contemporary geopolitical landscape.
As the world’s most populous nation and a major global economy, India’s inclusion would inject much-needed representation for the 21st century’s multipolar reality. Its consistent contributions to UN peacekeeping missions and its growing economic and political influence make it a strong contender. Many developing nations view India as a crucial voice for the Global South, advocating for fairness in trade, climate justice, and institutional reform. Its permanent membership would significantly amplify the influence of emerging economies on the world stage.
Notably, four of the five permanent UNSC members have voiced support for India’s aspirations. The United States, through statements from both former President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, has affirmed its backing for India’s permanent status in a reformed council. France, under President Emmanuel Macron, has also strongly endorsed India’s bid, alongside other significant global players like Germany, Japan, and Brazil, as well as representation from African nations. The United Kingdom, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently advocating for India’s permanent role, adds further weight. Russia has consistently supported India’s claim, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighting the shift in global power dynamics since the UN’s inception. Beyond these major powers, countries such as Portugal, Kuwait, Bhutan, Mauritius, and the African Union have also openly declared their support for India’s permanent membership on the UNSC.