PM Modi calls UN, global bodies “almost irrelevant.”
Amid escalating global tensions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasizing how it exposed the limitations of every nation and highlighted the urgent need for global unity. He stressed that no country, regardless of its power or resources, was fully prepared to handle the crisis alone. The pandemic, he noted, demonstrated the importance of collaboration, resilience, and strengthening international institutions to address future challenges effectively. PM Modi reiterated that fostering unity and cooperation among nations is crucial in navigating global crises and ensuring a more secure and resilient world for future generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on American scientist Lex Fridman’s podcast on Sunday, criticized the United Nations and other international organizations as becoming increasingly irrelevant amid rising global conflicts. He pointed to ongoing wars in the Middle East and growing tensions between China and the United States, stating that these institutions have failed to evolve and address contemporary global challenges. According to PM Modi, these organizations have become “almost irrelevant” due to their inability to implement necessary reforms.
Call for Reform and Reflection on Global Issues
PM Modi’s remarks highlight India’s long-standing demand for structural reforms in global governance bodies like the UN Security Council (UNSC). He reiterated that these institutions, designed decades ago, no longer reflect the realities of today’s multipolar world and fail to address pressing global conflicts effectively.
The Prime Minister reflected on the lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, which he believes exposed vulnerabilities in national governance and underscored the need for global unity. He emphasized that the pandemic should have led to a stronger, more cooperative international order, but instead, the world has seen increasing divisions and conflicts.
India’s Push for UNSC Reform
India has long advocated for reforms within the UN Security Council, arguing that the current structure does not adequately represent the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century. At present, the UNSC comprises five permanent members – Russia, the UK, China, France, and the United States – and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms by the UN General Assembly. The five permanent members have the power to veto any substantive resolution, often leading to gridlock in crucial international decisions.
PM Modi reiterated India’s position that emerging economies and regional powers, including India, deserve a permanent seat at the table to contribute more effectively to global peace and security. The UK, France, and the US have voiced support for India’s inclusion in the UNSC, but China and Russia have remained reluctant.
Criticism of Global Inaction
PM Modi also expressed concerns over how international institutions have failed to act decisively against countries and organizations that violate global rules. He pointed to conflicts and ongoing geopolitical tensions where rules are disregarded, and global institutions appear powerless to intervene.
The Prime Minister’s criticism comes at a time when global institutions are under increased scrutiny for their inability to prevent or resolve conflicts effectively. The United Nations has faced criticism for its lack of action in the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
India’s Role in Global Diplomacy
India has positioned itself as a key player in global diplomacy, advocating for a rules-based international order. During its G20 presidency, India emphasized inclusive growth, digital transformation, and sustainable development. PM Modi has repeatedly called for a reformed multilateralism that aligns with contemporary global needs, ensuring a fairer representation of developing nations.
India has also been actively involved in peace efforts, offering diplomatic mediation and humanitarian aid in various global crises. The country’s leadership in forums like BRICS and the Quad (comprising the US, Japan, Australia, and India) further underscores its role in shaping global policy.
The Future of Global Governance
PM Modi’s remarks on the Lex Fridman podcast reflect a broader debate on the future of global governance. As new power centers emerge and traditional alliances shift, the relevance of institutions like the UN will depend on their ability to reform and adapt. Countries like India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan are pushing for a more inclusive and effective decision-making process that better represents today’s world order.
With growing geopolitical tensions and increasing challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic instability, the need for efficient and responsive international organizations has never been greater. As India continues to assert its position on the global stage, its push for reform in institutions like the UN could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of international diplomacy.
PM Modi’s call for change underscores a sentiment shared by many countries in the Global South—that global governance structures must evolve or risk becoming obsolete. Whether these institutions will heed these calls for reform remains to be seen, but India’s growing influence suggests that the conversation on global restructuring is far from over.