Is the UN Security Council Outdated? PM Modi Calls for Reform!
Click to start listening
Synopsis
During the BRICS summit, PM Modi criticized the UN Security Council and other global institutions for their outdated structures. He emphasized the necessity for reforms to give the Global South its rightful representation, likening these institutions to archaic technology. His statements highlight the urgent need for change and adaptation in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi emphasizes the need for reform in global institutions.
- Technological metaphors illustrate the outdated nature of current frameworks.
- Global South must be prioritized in decision-making processes.
- BRICS expansion is a significant step toward equitable representation.
- Modern challenges require modern solutions in global governance.
Rio de Janeiro, July 6 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday criticized the outdated UN Security Council and various global institutions, employing tech-related metaphors to emphasize their diminishing relevance in the 21st century. He called for reforms to ensure that the Global South receives the recognition it deserves.
He stated, “21st-century software can’t run on a 20th-century typewriter,” drawing a sharp analogy to highlight the inefficacy of these institutions.
Another pointed remark from him was, “Without the Global South, global institutions are like a mobile phone that may have a SIM but no network.”
During his address at the BRICS summit’s inaugural session, PM Modi asserted, “The expansion of BRICS clearly shows that this organization is adaptable with the times. Now, we must exhibit the same determination for reforms in bodies such as the UN Security Council, WTO [World Trade Organization], and multilateral development banks.”
Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who opened the summit, also advocated for reforming the Security Council and international financial institutions to amplify the voice of the Global South.
Other institutions in need of reform include the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The WTO, which governs international trade, is heavily skewed against many countries in the Global South.
PM Modi emphasized that due to inadequate representation, the Global South often faces double standards and its interests are neglected.
On pressing global issues such as climate finance, sustainable development, and technology access, the Global South has only received superficial responses.
PM Modi attributed this to the institutions established in the 20th century that have failed to provide a platform for two-thirds of humanity and have excluded nations that contribute significantly to the global economy from key decision-making roles.
He compared these institutions to mobile phones without SIM cards, rendering them ineffective.
Using another tech metaphor, he remarked, “In this age of AI, where technology updates weekly, it is unacceptable that global institutions haven’t been updated even once in eighty years.”
He reiterated, “21st-century software can’t run on a 20th-century typewriter.”
With the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia into BRICS, PM Modi viewed this as a clear indication of the Global South's demand for rightful representation in international institutions.
Like Brazil, India aspires to secure a permanent seat on a reformed Security Council.
Point of View
PM Modi's remarks reflect a growing concern over the representation of the Global South in international decision-making. His advocacy for reform resonates with many nations seeking a voice in a rapidly changing global landscape. The call for modernization of institutions echoes the sentiments of several leaders who feel that existing frameworks fail to address contemporary challenges. This approach not only seeks to empower underrepresented nations but also aims for a more balanced and fair global governance.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did PM Modi criticize the UN Security Council?
PM Modi criticized the UN Security Council for being outdated and ineffective, using technology metaphors to illustrate its inability to meet the needs of the 21st century.
What reforms did PM Modi demand?
He demanded reforms in the UN Security Council, WTO, and multilateral development banks to ensure that the Global South receives proper representation.
What metaphor did PM Modi use to describe the institutions?
PM Modi used the metaphor, '21st-century software can’t run on a 20th-century typewriter' to highlight the irrelevance of these institutions.
What is the significance of BRICS expanding?
The expansion of BRICS signifies a collective call from the Global South for rightful representation in international institutions.
What issues did PM Modi mention regarding the Global South?
He mentioned that the Global South faces challenges like climate finance and technology access, often receiving only token gestures from global institutions.
