Global frustration over UN reform stalls, warns Jaishankar

Speaking at a ministerial session during the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Jaishankar emphasised that the momentum for reforming the United Nations is strengthening, even as concrete progress remains elusive. While UN reform has featured as a regular agenda item at successive General Assembly sessions, the minister noted that the depth of sentiment calling for change has intensified among member states.

Jaishankar underscored a fundamental challenge hampering reform efforts: the absence of text-based negotiations. "If we are serious about reform, we need some text-based negotiation because you can't have a negotiation without a text," he said, cautioning that discussions without formal documentation devolve into mere time-wasting exercises rather than substantive diplomatic engagement.

The minister's remarks highlight a growing impatience within the international community over structural changes to the global body. According to Jaishankar, nations obstructing reform efforts are essentially exploiting the UN's institutional framework without demonstrating genuine concern for the organisation's effectiveness or legitimacy. The comments reflect India's longstanding push for UN Security Council reforms, including permanent representation for emerging economies.