Reading time : 1 minutes
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently expressed deep concerns about the United Nations, stating that “all is not well” within the organisation. Speaking at an event in New Delhi marking the UN’s 80th anniversary, Jaishankar highlighted that the UN’s decision-making process no longer reflects its diverse membership or addresses pressing global priorities, leading to polarised debates and gridlocked operations.
Jaishankar lauded the participation of over 7.4 lakh students in a nationwide competition to design a commemorative UN@80 postage stamp, which symbolically captured the world’s hope for peace amidst ongoing conflicts. He noted the suffering experienced especially by the Global South, which continues to bear the brunt of conflicts while more developed nations remain insulated from their consequences.
Reiterating India’s unwavering commitment to the ideals of peace, security, development, and multilateralism, Jaishankar referenced India’s significant role in global peace efforts. He cited the recent Chiefs of Army Staff Conclave held in New Delhi, which saw participation from 30 troop-contributing countries, emphasizing India’s leadership in peacekeeping missions worldwide.
However, the External Affairs Minister voiced sharp criticism of the UN’s current state, pointing out its deep structural and political challenges. He pointed to financial constraints as an emerging obstacle, along with an obstructed reform process that hampers meaningful change. He specifically called out the UN’s compromised credibility in the fight against terrorism, questioning the double standards displayed when a Security Council member shields terrorist organisations responsible for atrocities such as the April 22 Pahalgam attack—where 26 tourists lost their lives. He praised India’s decisive response with precision strikes under Operation Sindoor as a testament to its resolve against terrorism.
Further, Jaishankar highlighted the slow progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Agenda 2030 as a distress signal for the Global South, alongside challenges related to trade, supply chain dependency, and political dominance. Despite his critical outlook, he ended on an optimistic note, urging nations to renew their commitment to multilateralism and collective action. He stressed that the UN, while flawed, must be supported in this time of crisis, as faith in international cooperation is essential.
Concluding his address, Jaishankar reflected on the significance of the event itself, symbolizing shared purpose and unity amid global challenges. His call was clear: “What unites us is what is most important, and the fact that we are meeting here today sends a message in itself.”
This candid critique and call for reinvigoration of the United Nations come at a crucial time, emphasizing the need for international solidarity to address the complex global landscape.