New Delhi: In an exclusive interview with NDTV, former Singaporean diplomat Professor Kishore Mahbubani has advocated for urgent reforms in the United Nations Security Council, specifically highlighting India's rightful place as a permanent member.
Professor Mahbubani asserted that India, as the third most powerful country after the United States and China, deserves a permanent seat on the UNSC. He further suggested that the United Kingdom, no longer a "great power," should relinquish its seat to India.
Citing the UK's reluctance to use its veto power for fear of backlash, the former diplomat argued that the logical course of action would be for the UK to give up its seat to India.
He also underscored the need for broader UN reforms, pointing to the founders' vision of ensuring all great powers have a vested interest in the organization to guarantee its success. The collapse of the League of Nations, he said, highlighted the importance of including contemporary great powers, not just those of the past.
Professor Mahbubani suggested that relinquishing its seat would also benefit the UK, allowing it more independence in its actions.
These statements highlight the ongoing debate surrounding UN reforms and India's growing prominence on the global stage. While the path to such reforms remains complex, this interview underscores the increasing calls for a more representative and effective UN Security Council.
