Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN, Munir Akram, has advocated for urgent reforms to the UN Security Council to enhance transparency and inclusivity. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to reflect current global dynamics, opposing the expansion of permanent members while supporting alternative membership categories proposed by the UfC group. Current discussions highlight both areas of agreement and significant divergences regarding the Council’s structure and functionality.
During a recent debate at the United Nations, Pakistan’s Ambassador Munir Akram called for reforms to the UN Security Council, emphasizing the need for greater transparency and inclusivity. He asserted that addressing global and regional conflicts necessitates a restructured approach to the Council’s operations, stating that the reforms should encompass the entire UN system, including the General Assembly, Economic and Social Council, and Peacebuilding Commission.
Ambassador Akram highlighted that while there is consensus on the urgency for restructuring the 15-member Council, any expansion of permanent members would hinder progress and effectively freeze its adaptability to changing global dynamics. He expressed that new realities can only be adequately represented through electoral processes rather than simply adding new permanent members.
Referring to the Group of Four—comprised of India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, which seeks permanent seats—he underscored the alternative proposed by the Uniting for Consensus (UfC) group, led by Italy and Pakistan. This group opposes additional permanent members and advocates for the introduction of a new membership category that allows for longer terms and re-elections, increasing the total number of elected seats to 21.
Ambassador Akram noted that ongoing discussions surrounding Security Council reforms have revealed both areas of agreement, particularly regarding African representation and the expansion of membership for developing nations, as well as significant differences on key issues such as the veto, membership categories, and Council size.
In conclusion, Ambassador Munir Akram of Pakistan has articulated the necessity for comprehensive reforms within the UN Security Council. He advocates for enhanced transparency and electoral representation rather than expanding permanent membership. The ongoing dialogues reflect both consensus and disagreement among member states, highlighting the complexity of achieving meaningful reform in the Council’s structure.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
