Are G4 Ministers Advancing UNSC Reforms and Negotiations?
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Synopsis
In a significant move towards reforming the UN Security Council, G4 ministers, led by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, have assessed ongoing negotiations. With a commitment to transformation, they face challenges from obstructing nations. Will their efforts finally lead to meaningful change?
Key Takeaways
- G4 ministers reaffirm commitment to UNSC reform.
- Negotiations face obstruction from a small coalition of nations.
- General Assembly has extended the negotiation process yet again.
- Signs of progress include a revised 'Elements Paper'.
- Reforming UNSC is a key priority for India.
New York, Sep 26 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, along with the G4 ministers, has evaluated the status of negotiations aimed at reforming the Security Council while reaffirming their dedication to this objective.
Following their meeting on Thursday, he shared on X that the “G4 has reiterated its commitment to transforming the United Nations, particularly the UN Security Council. The current state of the Inter-Governmental Negotiation (IGN) process was also assessed.”
Participants included Foreign Ministers Mauro Vieira of Brazil, Takeshi Iwaya of Japan, and Johann Wadephul of Germany.
The G4 coalition advocates for the reform of the Security Council to include additional permanent members and to support each other's bids for seats on a reformed Council.
Progress in negotiations has been stymied due to a small coalition of nations obstructing the adoption of a negotiating text vital for setting the agenda for dialogue.
As it has done annually since negotiations began in 2009, the General Assembly last month extended the process, moving from the previous session to a new one that commenced this month.
During this rollover, the G4 identified a slight indication of progress as the IGN’s co-chairs released a revised “Elements Paper” detailing their understanding of the positions held by various countries and groups, thus creating a record to facilitate ongoing discussions.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also remarked on some advancement.
At a recent press briefing regarding the IGN, he stated, “Previously, there was a committee that struggled to produce papers, and documents did not transition from one year to the next.”
“Now, there is an actively engaged committee,” he noted. “Thus, I observe movement.”
Reforming the Security Council remains a primary diplomatic objective for India, which aspires to secure a permanent seat.
On Wednesday, Jaishankar hosted a joint meeting with the foreign ministers of L.69, a coalition of 42 Global South nations advocating for Council reforms, and the C-10, a group of 10 leading African countries promoting the addition of permanent seats.
Point of View
The G4's commitment to reforming the Security Council reflects a broader aspiration for equitable representation in global governance. While progress has been slow due to obstructionist tactics from certain nations, the ongoing dialogue signals a willingness to adapt and evolve, which is essential for the UN's credibility and effectiveness.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the G4's main goal regarding the UN?
The G4 aims to reform the UN Security Council to include additional permanent members and to support each other’s bids for those seats.
Why has progress on UNSC reforms stalled?
Progress has been hindered by a small group of countries that have blocked the adoption of a negotiating text necessary for setting the agenda for discussions.
What recent developments occurred in the negotiations?
The IGN's co-chairs released a revised 'Elements Paper' that outlines the various positions and provides a framework for continued negotiations.
What is India's stance on UNSC reform?
Reforming the Security Council is a top diplomatic priority for India, which is striving to secure a permanent seat.
How does the UN Secretary-General view the negotiations?
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has observed some progress, noting that the committee is now actively engaged in producing documents.
