September 13th 2024.
The United States is once again showing its unwavering support for India, Japan, and Germany to become permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. As they prepare for the upcoming Summit of the Future and UN General Assembly high-level week in New York, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced new proposals for reforming the powerful UN body.
During a talk on 'Future of Multilateralism and UN Reform' at the Council on Foreign Relations, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield declared that the US is in favor of creating two permanent seats for Africa on the Council, in addition to allowing African countries to hold non-permanent memberships. She also mentioned the US's support for a new elected seat for Small Island Developing States and for engaging in text-based negotiations.
When asked about the US's stance on the G4 nations, which includes Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield clarified that while the US supports Japan, Germany, and India, they have not explicitly expressed support for Brazil. She emphasized India's large population and the US's strong belief that they deserve a seat on the Council, despite potential opposition from other countries.
A senior administration official, speaking to reporters about the US's announcements, reassured that the US is not backing away from their support for India, Japan, and Germany to have permanent seats on the Security Council. They also highlighted President Biden's affirmation that a reformed Council should include permanent representation for Latin America and the Caribbean, in addition to the G4 nations.
However, the official clarified that the US is not proposing a specific number of seats for a reformed Security Council at this time. They stated that the US's announcements provide a clearer vision for a reformed Council, but there are still many questions that need to be addressed and will be discussed during the Inter-Governmental Negotiations on UNSC reform.
The US also stands by its support for Germany, India, and Japan and believes there should be representation from the GRULAC countries (Group of Latin America and Caribbean Countries). When asked about the US's new position, the official stated that while their proposals for two permanent seats for African countries and a non-permanent seat for Small Island Developing States are new, the US still supports its longstanding positions for Germany, India, and Japan, as well as permanent representation for Latin America and the Caribbean.
The official reiterated that the US does not support expanding the veto power to new permanent members, as it would only lead to further deadlock within the Council. They acknowledged that there will never be a perfect Security Council, but it is important to continue striving for a more representative and effective Council in addressing global challenges.
India has been a vocal advocate for Security Council reform, citing the Council's outdated structure and inability to effectively address current conflicts. As world leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gather in New York for the Summit of the Future, they will also be adopting the 'Pact of the Future' in honor of the UN's 80th anniversary next year. This pact aims to guide the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and address emerging challenges and opportunities.
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