Reforming Security Council Should Be Top Priority

[hello_10]

UN General Assembly 2012: Reforming Security Council Should Be Top Priority
Ed Hancox

This week marks the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. Along with round after round of speeches by the world's diplomats, there will be debates on the functioning of the United Nations itself. One of the longest-running of those debates centers on the possible reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

In many ways the UNSC operates as the Board of Directors for the 193 members of the UN, though the UNSC also has certain powers unique to themselves, including the power to authorize peacekeeping missions – in essence to order troops into harm's way. The UNSC is comprised of 15 members, 10 of which are elected to two-year terms on a rotating basis; the nature of the other five though are the reason behind the calls to reform the UNSC. These other five – China, France, Great Britain, Russia and the United States – are permanent members of the UNSC, and are the only members with veto power: a single "no" vote from any permanent member kills a motion within the Security Council (non-permanent members do not wield this veto power). A very recent example of veto power in action has been Russia and China putting a halt to Security Council resolutions for action in and against Syria.

The five permanent members of the UNSC were not selected at random; they represent the winning powers in World War II. Many of the United Nations members though have grown increasingly critical of the make-up of the Security Council, saying that it represents the reality of global power 60 years ago, not today.

The critics make an excellent point. Even a casual glance at the permanent members of the Security Council shows that broad swaths of the globe are unrepresented, while Europe can claim three of the five permanent seats (or 2 ½, depending on how you want to count Russia). The argument isn't so much that the Security Council should be reformed – there seems to be a general consensus that reform is needed – but rather what shape should that reform take. Most reform plans center around the idea of expanding the number of permanent, veto-holding members of the UNSC to better represent the geopolitical realities of the 21st century.

The strongest proponents for expansion have been the so-called "G4 nations" – Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan, who mutually support each other's bids for permanent seats on the UNSC. Still other UN members say that an African nation needs to also hold veto-power within the UNSC, while others support the elevation of a country from the Arab world, and/or a nation with a Muslim-majority population to permanent-member status.

India's selection as a permanent member should be a no-brainer: India is the world's largest democracy and home to a sixth of the world's population; in short, it is too large a country not to be a permanent member. The case for Brazil is also strong: like India, it too is a multi-ethnic democracy and one of the world's top emerging economies. Inclusion of Brazil and India would also put two representatives from the "Global South" permanently on the UNSC.

Similarly, the candidacies of Germany and Japan should be rejected: Europe is arguably already over-represented on the 21st century version of the UNSC, which strongly argues against Germany's inclusion; and while Japan is a modern democracy, it is also one of the most insular and ethnically undiverse nations on Earth, and also a nation that lacks a robust foreign policy or sphere of influence. While it could be argued that France and Britain serve as proxies for the interests of their former colonial holdings, or that Brazil and/or India could represent the developing world, Japan would represent only Japan; that's not a strong enough case for permanent membership.

Adding India and Brazil would still leave the other interest groups unaddressed. Adding Egypt as a permanent member would check off the African, Arab, and Muslim boxes, but Egypt is still in too much revolutionary turmoil to seriously consider them as a candidate at this point. Nigeria or South Africa could represent Africa, but both are flawed candidates: while Nigeria has economic clout and cultural influence (though their Nollywood movie industry) in Africa, the country is also notoriously corrupt and currently wracked with sectarian strife; South Africa managed to emerge from the Apartheid era as a stable country, but politically it is a one-party state, though the ruling African National Congress is showing signs of fracturing – these circumstances would seem to disqualify each for the time being. Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim nation, has in recent years achieved stability and become an emerging market to watch, though it is also likely too soon to consider them for permanent membership as well. :thumb:

Every potential permanent member is sure to be opposed by some other member of the United Nations; for example, we can expect Pakistan to vehemently oppose the elevation of their historic rival, India, to permanent member status. But this level of disagreement can be expected of just about any action the United Nations could ever consider taking; it in itself is not a compelling enough reason to oppose any proposed addition to the UNSC, especially if these new permanent members can represent a portion of the world's population that currently lacks that voice on the UNSC.

The current Security Council is a snapshot in time from the late 1940s, it has failed to keep up with the geopolitical development of the world. Expansion of the permanent membership of the UNSC would go a long way towards addressing this shortcoming. At the same time, the UNSC cannot be expanded too much – it is hard enough to get consensus among 15 members, increasing that number to 25, 30 or more is a recipe for gridlock. A UNSC of 18 members – eight permanent/ten rotating - makes sense, as does giving two of those new permanent seats to India and Brazil. The question of who gets the eighth seat remains open, but it should not hold back the expansion of the UNSC, an idea whose time has come.

UN General Assembly 2012: Reforming Security Council Should Be Top Priority

 

[hello_10]

China supports reform of UN Security Council

BEIJING - Assistant Foreign Minister Wu Hailong on Friday called for greater representation of developing countries within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), specifically African nations, as a goal of its reform.

Wu made the remarks at the fourth Lanting Forum held by the Foreign Ministry, where he made a keynote address on the 40th anniversary of the restoration of the lawful seat of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations.

Wu said China supports the rational and necessary reform of the UNSC, in order to make it better reflect the current situation of international politics. :thumb:

He called on the UNSC to improve its authority and efficiency, so it can better cope with global threats and challenges and perform better in its duty endowed by the UN Charter.

China has actively participated in the discussions and intergovernmental negotiations relating to UNSC reform and maintains frequent communication with related countries, such as Japan, India, Brazil and German, on the issue, he said.

"We value the roles and influence of such countries that are major but currently not permanent members of the UNSC," he said, adding that China hopes these countries will play bigger roles in the UN.

He said the reform package of the UNSC should be comprehensive and take into account the interests of all parties.

He believes that through full negotiation a package that most countries could accept will be reached and eventually the reform of the UNSC will be achieved.

With regard to the UN's role in the future, he suggested it should continue efforts to push for peaceful solutions to hot issues, remain committed to international cooperation on development while promoting social development and the progress of human rights.

He hopes the UN will uphold the authority and efficacy of international regimes on arms control and disarmament and proliferation prevention, continue to uphold international judicial justice, and continue to advance reasonable and necessary reforms.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2011-09/02/content_13609846.htm

"China ready to support Indian bid for UNSC"

The Hindu : News / International : “China ready to support Indian bid for UNSC”

 

[hello_10]

G4 Joint Statement on UN Security Council reform

1. The Minister of External Relations of Brazil, the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and the Foreign Secretary of India met in New York on 25 September 2012, in the margins of the opening of the 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, to exchange views on Security Council reform.

2. Recalling also their previous joint statements, the Ministers reiterated their common vision of a reformed Security Council, taking into consideration the contributions made by countries to the maintenance of international peace and security and other purposes of the organisation, as well as the need for increased representation of developing countries in both categories, in order to better reflect today's geopolitical realities. The G4 countries reiterated their commitments as aspiring new permanent members of the UN Security Council, as well as their support for each other's candidatures. They also reaffirmed their view of the importance of Africa to be represented in the permanent membership of an enlarged Council.

3. The Ministers discussed the progress on Security Council reform achieved thus far, including the discussions held during the eighth round of the intergovernmental negotiations. In this context, the Ministers shared the assessment that an overwhelming majority of member states voiced support for an expansion of the Security Council in both categories of membership, permanent and non-permanent. The Ministers also noted the assessment made to that end by the Chairman of the intergovernmental negotiations, H.E. Ambassador Zahir Tanin, in his letter dated 25 July 2012 to the President of the General Assembly and welcomed his recommendations therein. The Ministers expressed the view that the strong support for an expansion in both categories should be reflected in the negotiation process among member states and called for the drafting of a concise working document as the basis for further negotiations, in line with the recommendations of the Chairman.

4. The Ministers welcomed the decision by the General Assembly to immediately continue the process of intergovernmental negotiations in the informal plenary of the 67th Session, building on the progress achieved and the recommendations made by the Chairman. The Ministers underlined the need to achieve a concrete outcome in the 67th Session of the UN General Assembly and, in this context, expressed their commitment to continue to work in close cooperation and in a spirit of flexibility with other Member States and Groups of Member States in genuine text-based negotiations. They also expressed their determination to inject greater political momentum into the reform process, including with a view to the holding of a high-level meeting on Security Council reform, as also recommended by the Chairman in his letter which was circulated by the President of the 66th session of the UN General Assembly to member states on 27 July 2012.

5. The Ministers expressed gratitude for the efforts made by the President of the 66th General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser and the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Negotiations, H.E. Ambassador Zahir Tanin. They looked forward to working closely with H.E. Mr. Vuk Jeremic, President of the 67th General Assembly, and his Chairman in order to bring about the urgently needed reform of the Security Council.

Antonio de Aguiar Patriota, Minister of External Relations of Brazil

Guido Westerwelle, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany

Koichiro Gemba, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan

Ranjan Mathai, Foreign Secretary of India

Brazilian Economic News Update: G4 Joint Statement on UN Security Council reform

India and its three partners — Brazil, Germany and Japan — pushing for permanent seats for themselves in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) have decided to provide greater political ballast to their efforts.

The Hindu : News / International : G4 pushes for UNSC reforms

 

[hello_10]

in fact its not the right time for India to try for permanent seat in UN. as, its hard for them to get Veto while only permanent seat in UN has a little meaning. and if yo want to delay negotiation on Veto but first permanent seat then again US will say like this as above. "there can't be an agreement between emerged and emerging powers, until we reach a power balance which is then likely to be maintained for longer." neither US wants India to get permanent seat with veto power nor India would itself try for the same until they may come in the position for a better negotiation after few more years. India would maintain grouping of G4 with Germany, Brazil, Japan and after 3-4 years of economic fall of these WW2 winners, then there will be little for US and its team to understand difference between right and wrong, whether its NPT or permanent seat in UN. :thumb:

(and also, we find Indonesia in the position to replace Japan, and Turkey in the position to replace Germany if this process is delayed for a while. lets see how things go........)

 

[hello_10]

I would like to mention the key points we discussed, why Indonesia may become the more suitable candidate for the permanent seat in UN by 2020 onward, with a probable claim for Turkey also in place of Germany, hopefully by 2020:-

=> Why Indonesia?

1st, it is the 3rd biggest country of Asia by population, and the 3rd largest Democratic country after India and US, so it must be the 3rd country from Asia in this regard, after China and India :thumb:

2nd, the largest Muslim country.

3rd, there is no country opposing its candidature, while China won't let Japan get into this UN's seat.

4th, its economy size is above $1.1tn on PPP, while that of Japan is $4.4tn. but Indonesian economy would be double by 2020 while that of Japan may hardly maintain its current size, if it won't collapse with EU+US anytime this decade. as, its 'highly likely' that few of the major economies of EU would collapse till 2020, and then it would then bring down UK, France, with it also, obviously. and then its hard to believe that US and Japan type economies will remain unaffected after that......

5th, a collapse of NATO, after fall of its major economies, would clear path for the countries like Indonesia for the position of permanent seat in UN. as, neither there will be any grouping like NATO nor there will be much to ask, "why a US's follower isn't given a top post of UN. "

World's largest Muslim-majority nation and third-largest democracy, Indonesia should get a permanent seat at the reformed UN Security Council (UNSC)

As the world's largest Muslim-majority nation and third-largest democracy, Indonesia should get a permanent seat at the reformed UN Security Council (UNSC), Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa said.

With the US and China recently expressing support for India to get a seat :balle:, Marty said Monday that the Indonesian government would certainly not drop its efforts to get a seat in the UNSC, arguing that "there is still room" for both Asian countries, while reform at the UNSC was still underway. :thumb:

While Indonesia does not have support from major powers, no countries have expressed objections to Southeast Asia's largest economy becoming a permanent member of the UNSC, he said.

"If you are keen to ensure the Security Council is more representative, I can't think of no better way than seeing Indonesia — a country that is comfortably promoting development and progress — become a permanent member," Marty told The Jakarta Post at his office.

He said should Indonesia be excluded from the UNSC, the world would be at a disadvantage.

Marty said Indonesia's capabilities had been tested through time after serving in the UNSC three times as a non-permanent member. Indonesia was a non-permanent member of the UNSC in 1973-1974, 1995-1996 and 2007-2008.

Indonesia takes up the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2011, with observers arguing that this would strengthen its standing in the international arena. President Susilo Bambang Yuhdoyono, for instance, said the 10-nation bloc would play a greater global role next year.

However, University of Indonesia security expert Andi Widjajanto said the main problem with the UN's reforms was that there were no discussions on amending the body's existing charter.

"Indonesia stop touting static factors — such as being the third-largest democracy and having the largest Muslim population — and start proving its ability to maintain peace and stability, at least in East Asia," he told the Post. Andi said Indonesia could represent East Asia at the UNSC, just as India, Nigeria and Brazil would represent South Asia, Africa and Latin America, respectively. :thumb:

He added that it remained unclear which country Indonesia should seek support from as UN reforms were not complete.

University of Indonesia international relations expert Hariyadi Wirawan said should Indonesia have to compete with India for a permanent seat, "at the end of the day the US would definitely choose to support India".

Marty said Security Council members were negotiating a number of options to reform the UNSC, including introducing new permanent members and interim members for countries to serve in the Council for more than two years.

The US, the UK, France, Russia and China have held permanent seats on the Security Council since 1971, when the People's Republic of China took over the seat held by Taiwan.

RI optimistic about UNSC permanent seat | The Jakarta Post

 

[hello_10]

Why Turkey?

1st, if Germany follow collapse with other major economies of EU this decade then there will be little difference left between economy size of Turkey and Germany. while both have almost equal population and located in EU itself.

2nd, with around 80mil population, its a bigger country than Britain and France and after a 'likely' economic collapse of UK and France during this decade, Turkey will emerge as a more stable European economy to have a permanent seat in UN.

3rd, a big Muslim country and having close terms with Gulf nations, who may represent this whole Arab world in a better way in UN, so it would obviously have full support from this whole region for its claim on permanent seat in UN.

4th, there is no country who would oppose claim of Turkey and after a probable collapse of EU, Turkey will emerge as a representative of whole EU also this way, an emerging economy which falls in E7s with Indonesia itself.

these are the main reasons why we find Indonesia and Turkey would emerge as favorites for their claim on permanent seat of UN from 2020 onward.........

Turkey's complex case for UN Security Council reform

One of the interesting innovations in Brazil's foreign policy under Dilma Rousseff is the adoption of a more subtle approach to the question of UN Security Council reform. While President Lula and his outspoken foreign minister Celso Amorim used every conceivable opportunity to make the case for reform, such public declarations have become rare under Rousseff and her smooth foreign minister Antonio Patriota. Far from having abandoned the quest for reform, Brazil's rationale has evolved: Both Rousseff and Patriota know that Brazil on its own is unable to bring about UN Security reform - rather, it requires a complex constellation of factors, including a sort of 'global momentum' that only occurs every once in a while. At the same time, decision-makers in Brazil are convinced that, if reform is to take place, Brazil will almost certainly obtain a permanent seat. Brazil is globally recognized as a 'natural candidate', so policy makers can focus on reforming other, potentially less rigid institutions, such as the IMF.

In this context, Turkey has emerged as the leading mouthpiece for UNSC reform. Pointing out recently that "the West is no longer the only centre of the world", Turkey's Prime Minister Erdogan called for the inclusion of emerging powers, such as Turkey, Brazil, India and Indonesia as permanent UNSC members. Turkey's criticism is thus in many ways similar to Brazil's argument that the UNSC symbolizes an unjust and unequal international system, which needs urgent reform. Claiming a leadership role in the region, Erdogan is in a way adopting Brazil's in-your-face strategy under President Lula, which may help Turkey join the list of 'natural candidates', currently led by Brazil and India. :thumb: :balle:

Yet Erdogan's current approach differs from Brazil's because it is tied to the crisis in Syria. While Brazil makes a general argument about a fundamentally flawed international system which needs to regain its legitimacy, Turkey's main criticism is the UNSC's lack of effectiveness. He warns that "if we leave the issue to the vote of one or two members" (referring to Russia and China) "of the permanent five at the United Nations Security Council, then the aftermath of Syria will be very hazardous and humanity will write it down in history with unforgettable remarks". Erdogan thus essentially calls for eliminating permanent members' veto power and the requirement to reach unanimity in order to pass resolutions. The P5's individual veto power is one of the key pillars of today's international system, and many believe it is responsible for the institution's relative success over the past decades. Questioning this rule is a much more profound - and less realistic - call for reform than politely asking for permanent UNSC membership à la Brasília.

But Turkey's approach is also different from Brazil's because it rejects Brazil's narrative of an underrepresented and rising Global South and an established yet declining Global North unwilling to share power with emerging powers. Turkey's criticism is focused on Russia and China, whose position in the 'Global South' vs. 'Global North' debate is not clearly defined - during BRICS Summits and IMF meetings, at least, both are keen to show their credentials as underrepresented powers that push for reform. Erdogan, on the other hand, portrays them as the two greatest obstacles against creating more effective international institutions.

By confronting Russia and China head-on, Turkey is unlikely to find support from Brazil, which - along with the other BRICS members - does not support a military intervention in Syria. It also diminishes the probability of Turkey entering the BRICS group any time soon, increasing the chances for Indonesia should the group ever decide to expand. By criticizing both Russia and China on the one hand, and 'the West' on the other, Turkey has adopted a rather risky strategy that may in the end complicate its own candidacy for permanent UN Security Council membership.

Turkey's complex case for UN Security Council reform

 

[hello_10]

Nigeria deserves a UN permanent Security Council seat on merit :thumb:

Nigeria, the largest democratic Black Nation, having pursued one of the most altruistic, benevolent, and purposeful foreign policies in the modern world, therefore, eminently deserves to represent Africa on the United Nations Security Council as a permanent member. :thumb:

If the world is not loudly praising and applauding Nigeria despite her glowing and ground-breaking (trail-blazing) contributions to global security and prosperity, it is not for lack of a track record of achievements. It is rather because of her hard luck of always having her many virtues written on water and its few vices carved on marble. Nigeria as a global actor, patriotic sentiments and national loyalty aside, has one of the most altruistic, benevolent and selfless foreign policies among the community of independent states of today's modern world.

As far as her foreign relations is concerned, Nigeria dares to assume the status of the biblical city stationed upon the hill, beaming her light for the benefit of other members of the global community. There is in fact a sense in which Nigeria takes better care of foreigners and international responsibilities more than its own citizens and people. It is this fact that makes Nigeria unique and peculiar among the community of States around the world.

Rather than reeling out the long list of Nigeria's good deeds and glowing credentials in the international arena since becoming an independent nation-State, this essay will just underline the golden principles that are common denominators of Nigeria's diplomatic practice.

A country with a good heart, Nigeria always gives her widow's mite. Nigeria is the true and quintessential Santa Claus. While economically developed and technologically advanced countries like USA, Japan and Germany give development aid and assistance out of their super-abundance, Nigeria -- given her depressing social indicators, poor health indices and low human development index – almost always gives sacrificially, out of love, not out of self-sufficiency. Imagine Nigeria giving soft loan of million of dollars to Ghana (perceived as a competitor) to Nigeria for African leadership) for power projects at a time when Nigeria's power sector is in dire need of injection of fresh funds or raising money for victims of Hurricane Katrina when Nigeria is arguably a home to thousands of actual or threatening natural disasters. This is why Nigeria's benevolence oftentimes looks absurd or blatantly stupid to the simple-minded. This kind of sacrificial giving and self-abnegation is the stuff of which Nigeria's foreign relations is made. :thumb:

Nigeria's commitment to the political equality of States, a good concept often stated but rarely practised by most countries of the world, is legendary and unparalleled. It is particularly striking and noteworthy given Nigeria's large population, natural resource base, political clout and power potential, and consequent enormous temptation to be hegemonic. The relationship of mutual respect and reciprocal regard that Nigeria has with much smaller countries like Sao Tome and Equatorial Guinea is a good example that all modern and progressive countries should emulate. Most countries in Nigeria's big shoes would lord it over such micro-States that Nigeria has chosen to treat with utmost respect and hold in high esteem.

Nigeria has over the years proved to be a highly responsible international citizen. Nigeria's ground-breaking contributions to peace-keeping, international relief assistance and humanitarian operations as well as technical aid despite her own pervasive poverty and widespread puts her in a class of her own. :tup: In spite of her parlous domestic circumstances and development challenges, Nigeria still manages to promptly pay dues and assessed contributions to international bodies and organizations to which it belongs. Even the worst and most obnoxious Nigerian government have upheld this shining example of international responsibility.

Unlike most big and powerful countries, Nigeria does not subscribe to the notorious beggar-thy-neighbour policy of foreign relations: that you must exploit other countries in order to develop. Nigeria has practically shown that it believes development need not be a zero sum game; that all can be winners in the development game. Nigeria is a practical advocate of unadulterated symbiosis. Through her international behaviour, Nigeria has been saying: neither a commensal not a parasite be! Rather than use her might to oppress, suppress and exploit Sao Tome and Principe or Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria rather established mutually beneficial joint development projects with the two neighbouring countries.

With the dawn of the new millennium, global solidarity, planetary patriotism, collective destiny of humanity, common heritage of mankind, and even cosmic brotherhood became the buzz words of the international community. While the world is still mouthing and preaching these noble ideals, Nigeria has been practising them in her foreign relations for the better part of her independent existence. Or how else can we explain a poor but concerned country paying the salaries of civil servants in countries as far as the Caribbean, educating and feeding the citizens of countries as distant as the Pacific Islands? How else can we make sense of the suicidal involvements and sacrificial commitments of Nigeria to the liberation wars and anti-apartheid battles that freed countries like Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa? This later tendency of leading anti-colonial struggles in distant lands at the risk of reprisal attacks from the terror machines of unrepentant colonialists earned Nigeria the tag of a Frontline State in anti-imperialist struggles despite her geographical distance from the actual theatres of war). :thumb:

Moreover, Nigeria despite all odds has proved to be a law-abiding international citizen. How many countries in Nigeria's position will swallow the bitter pill dished out by International Court of Justice to Nigeria over the disputed Bakassi Peninsula? The ICJ in a controversial decision awarded the territory to Cameroon despite the fact that Nigerian authorities have administered and Nigerians have inhabited the Peninsula from time immemorial. In a rare show of equanimity and gallantry (some may say cowardice or misguided pacifism), Nigeria has since the judgment withdrawn its administration and control from several villages that had been under its sovereignty for ages.

Furthermore, Nigeria, unlike most countries with its resources, influence and other power potentials, does not have any territorial ambitions and expansionist tendencies. That is why it calmly and peacefully resolves unavoidable border disputes with border disputes with countries such as Benin Republic, Niger Republic, Chad and Cameroon. Further still, Nigeria in both preachment and practice is a great exponent of multilateralism over and above the more famous and self-serving international modes of empire-building and hegemonic project.

Need I say more about the golden principles of Nigeria's foreign policy? It is against this backdrop of trail-blazing contributions to international cooperation that one finds it difficult to understand while Nigeria has to struggle to become a member of the Security Council of the United Nations just so that it can continue the good job it has been doing for the international community. :thumb:Given Nigeria's ground-breaking and selfless contributions to global security and Africa's development, Nigeria should be the bride not the suitor in this wooing game.

Femi Ajayi is the Senior Special Assistant on Development Cooperation to the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

State House Abuja - Analysis/Commentary

 

[hello_10]

Egypt:

if we find Nigeria to be having 100% chance to get Permanent Seat in UN by 2020 onward then we find Egypt to be having at least 90% chance to become the second member from Africa in this regard, as two countries from Africa are proposed for Permanent Seat in UN with Veto. we welcome genuine intention of Egypt government to serve interests of developing countries and we hope soon they will get full support from whole developing world for their claim on permanent seat in UN with Veto power:- :thumb:

Egypt and UN Security Council membership

Egypt has played an effective role in the preparatory talks on the United Nations reform and the expansion of the UN Security Council.

On the UN reform, Egypt has highlighted the necessity to enhance the independence of the world body to deliver its message independently and neutrally.

Egypt has been seeking to obtain a UN Security Council permanent seat in an effort to increase the representation of the developing countries in the Security Council. :thumb:

The Egyptian stance on the Security Council membership is based on supporting the right of the African countries to obtain two permanent and five impermanent seats in the Security Council. :thumb:

In its quest for the Security Council membership, Egypt is supported by its long history on supporting liberation and independence of the third world countries and its heavyweight role on the Arab, African and Islamic arenas. :thumb:

In addition, Egypt has been actively participating in all UN activities in the political, economic and social domains as well as in the peacekeeping operations in many parts in the African continent.

Egypt State Information Service

 

[average american]

I doubt if any Islamic goverment is going to get veto powers.

 

[ganesh177]

There are different blocks suggested by diff people and nations, where india is the only common factor in each block.

I dont see any chance of nigeria, egypt, indonesia.

It has to be g4 or it goes for a toss as usual.

 

[hello_10]

There are different blocks suggested by diff people and nations, where india is the only common factor in each block.

I dont see any chance of nigeria, egypt, indonesia.

It has to be g4 or it goes for a toss as usual.

its true that West has politically enslaved most of the Muslim countries, excluding few like Iran. but we do hope for a more participation of developing countries in key decision makings and here we want at least Indonesia to have permanent seat with Veto. and as I said before, if this process of reform of UNSC extend to 2020 then its very likely that Turkey and Indonesia will have replaced Japan, Germany till then. lets see how it goes :thumb:

 

[hello_10]

There are different blocks suggested by diff people and nations, where india is the only common factor in each block.

I dont see any chance of nigeria, egypt, indonesia.

It has to be g4 or it goes for a toss as usual.

Sir, Im basically supportive of emerging economies with the bottom-line facts that the power balance made by P5s, the winners of WW2, won't continue for longer....

Nigeria GDP Annual Growth Rate

here I would like to mention about candidature of Nigeria for UNSC seat. Nigeria is now the African Tiger, with very less national debt, it had around 7% growth rate for last 7-8 years. and with around four times population than South Africa, its highly likely that there will not be much to ask about the candidature of Nigeria as compare to South Africa by 2020. we find Nigeria and Indonesia, very favorites for permanent seat of UN by 2020, as compare to Japan, South Africa. its likely that even Egypt may become the second preferred candidate from Africa by 2020, but less likely about South Africa, if this process is delayed till 2020. as, South Africa is also not going to get the type of progress like Nigeria, and would become a second tire African economy by 2020, after Nigeria, Egypt type African countries. :ranger:

 

[hello_10]

Indonesia calls for Muslim representation on Security Council

The world's estimated 1.1 billion Muslims deserve specific representation on an expanded Security Council, Indonesia's Foreign Minister said today, calling for any reform of the 15-member body United Nations body to consider the need for a variety of constituencies as well as greater geographic distribution.

Hassan Wirajuda told the General Assembly's annual General Debate that the Council was in urgent need of reform, saying that in a series of recent conflicts and tensions – over Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Iraq and Afghanistan, among others – the panel "should have been more decisive."

Mr. Wirajuda said it was clear that the Council's inability to deal adequately with these challenges was due mainly to what he described as its lack of democracy.

"To make the Council more democratic, the application of veto power of the permanent five [members] must be regulated," he said, referring to China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. "The misuse of the veto by any one permanent member should no longer be allowed to paralyze the entire Council."

He said that true democratization of the Council "also means an equitable distribution of its membership – not only in terms of geographical representation, where we already have imbalances – but also in terms of constituencies. Hence, the world's major civilizations should be proportionately represented. The world's community of 1.1 billion Muslims must be represented on the Council if it is to be truly democratic." :thumb:

Meanwhile, Zambia's Foreign Minister stressed the need for two permanent and two non-permanent seats on the Council for African nations, given that the continent comprises the second largest bloc of UN Member States.

Such a move would help to redress "the historical injustice against Africa," Kabinga J. Pande said.

Uruguay's External Relations Minister, Gonzalo Fernández, told the Assembly that his country would not support reform of the Council if it meant the creation of new members with veto rights.

Mr. Fernández said the veto right "constitutes a privilege that goes against the democratization of our Organization" and would in any case not be allowed under any intergovernmental negotiations package.

Earlier this month the General Assembly adopted a decision to begin intergovernmental negotiations on Council reform in informal plenary by February next year.

However, Mr. Fernandez said he was disappointed that countries have not yet reached consensus on reform, and taken on "timid steps forward" on changes to the UN Secretariat and the General Assembly.

Paula Gopee-Scoon, Foreign Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, said reform of Council was indispensable to the wider transformation of the UN.

"Failure to reform the Security Council could serve to undermine that organ's authority as the agency with the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security," she said.

Mrs. Gopee-Scoon said small States such as her own deserved "equity of access" on any expanded Council and she added that there was a need for all the world's regions to be represented in the permanent membership. :thumb:

For his part, Pham Gia Khiem, Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Viet Nam, said reform of the UN should not be confined to just the Security Council, but include the General Assembly, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and specialized agencies as well.

Such reforms "will make this Organization more effective and efficient in the areas of work mandated by the [UN] Charter," he said.

Reforming the world body could also bolster its ability to alleviate the suffering resulting from the current food crisis and propel globalization to help ensure peace and development for all, Tunisia's Foreign Minister, Abdelwaheb Abdallah, said.

He called on international financial institutions to create and implement agricultural and production policies that would guarantee the fundamental right to food security for all.

United Nations News Centre - Indonesia calls for Muslim representation on Security Council

 

[pack leader]

the UN is totally worthless as is if 4 more nations get veto power no meaningful decision will ever be made
since veto power is essential influence the true great powers will not budge ( USA china Russia )
there is zero chance for security council reform regardless off political posturing

 

[hello_10]

the UN is totally worthless as is if 4 more nations get veto power no meaningful decision will ever be made
since veto power is essential influence the true great powers will not budge ( USA china Russia )
there is zero chance for security council reform regardless off political posturing

sir, we all know that having more than 5 Veto's won't ever happen, otherwise there will never be any bill passed in UN

second, Indians would always understand that more they are pushed form West, they have to have more support from East, including Middle East. and the best I find Indonesia in this regard, with Turkey and Egypt also. I mean, more and more West push India, more you gotto give strength to East, on all the aspects, including religious/racial/cultural/social etc. :thumb:

rest, do you find UN really working? check, 2 Veto's were used in support of current Syrian government, which has same type of Asad government as in CHina/Russia itself, while still the whole West with their Arab followers are 'directly' supporting violence in Syria, against the Syrian government in favor of whom 2 Veto's were used????? do you find Veto working in UN even right now? i can't see the same :ranger:

anyway, we do need UN as a platform to talk, as much as possible.......

 

[hello_10]

INDONESIA EYES PERMANENT UN SECURITY COUNCIL SEAT

Indonesia has the potential and credentials to back its planned bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, The Jakarta Post reports, quoting several Indonesian officials and diplomats. Nugroho Wisnumurti, the former Indonesian permanent representative to the U.N. headquarters in New York, explained that Indonesia's rising economy and stature as the third largest democracy in the world and home to the largest population of Muslims make the country an ideal candidate for permanent membership to the council.:thumb: However, he noted that the country would need to address corruption and related domestic issues before formalizing its bid.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa said in February that the country plans to seek "a role in the U.N. SC that is commensurate with its standing in the world."

International Development - Indonesia Eyes Permanent UN Security Council Seat

 

[hello_10]

Present structure of UNSC serves no one: India

Press Trust of India

UNHQ, 3 NOV: India has said that the UN Security Council in its present structure is "completely out of tune" with global realities and serves "no one's purpose", asserting that an expansion in the 15-member body should have permanent representation from Asia, Africa and Latin America. :thunb:

India, which assumed this month's Presidency of the Security Council ahead of the expiry of its two-year term as a non-permanent member on 31 December, said the UN body has remained "polarised and politically divided" on key issues like Syria and this strengthens the need for its reform.

"The Security Council as it is presently structured is not reflective of contemporary realities, it is completely out of tune with what is happening in the world," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Hardeep Singh Puri told reporters yesterday, outlining the Council's monthly agenda.

"In order to give the Council effectiveness there is need to enlarge its size. India's point of view is that the Security Council needs to be more transparent," he said.
He said there could be consensus around modestly expanding the Council to increasing the number of members to about 25.

On the use of veto, Puri said while the provision should be retained, there needs to be a discussion on the precise conditions and circumstances under which veto should be used by countries. "There could be a veto restraint agreement." :thumb:

Puri pointed out that non-permanent members of the Council are at a "disadvantage" since by the time they come to grips with a particular issue, it is time for their rotation.

Puri said time has come to realise that expansion of the Council will not come from within the Security Council but from traction within the General Assembly.

http://www.thestatesman.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=429480&catid=36

India, Brazil to step up efforts on UNSC reform :thumb:

The Hindu : News / National : India, Brazil to step up efforts on UNSC reform

 

[hello_10]

Egypt president urges UNSC reforms

The Egyptian president has criticized the structure of the U.N. Security Council calling for efforts to correct the council structure and expand its powers. :thumb:

Mohamed Morsi who was in the sixteenth summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Tehran on Thursday handed over the presidency of the movement to his Iranian counterpart and said in talks that a revolutionary Egypt will continue and develop its cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran, JamejamOnline reported.

He said that he is confident that Iran will shore up the Non-Aligned Movement on international stage, stressing his country's cooperation with NAM members, especially Iran.

Morsi said Cairo will go ahead with its cooperation with Tehran, adding that Iran's NAM presidency will come with successes and that Iran could manage to materialize the objectives of the movement.

As for the U.N. Security Council, he slammed inequalities in the council and said that efforts to reform and develop the structure of the U.N. Security Council are among our requests.

As an example, African nations should be among both permanent and non-permanent members of the Security Council, he underlined. :thumb:

He then referred to the question of Palestine and said that Egypt lends full support to any move by Palestinians in the U.N. Security Council and backs them in their U.N. membership bid.

President Morsi also defended the Palestinian unity and called on Palestinians to take measures for peace, unity and resistance to the occupiers.

On the question of Syria, he said Egypt seeks a prosperous future for the Arab country and expresses sympathy with the Syrian nation. He also said that the opposing groups should unite their ranks and cover all factions.

He reiterated that the bloodshed should be stopped in Syria and that a new free Syria should be built.

JamejamOnline.ir

 

[hello_10]

France backs Nigeria's UN Security Council bid

YAMOUSSOUKRO – AS Cote d'Ivoire's elected President, Mr Alassan Quattara was, yesterday, sworn-in, the government and people of France, in appreciation of Nigeria's leadership role in the Africa region and restoration of democratic governance in Cote d'Ivoire has pledged to support Nigeria in her bid for a permanent seat of the United Nation, UN, Security Council. :thumb:

President Nicholas Sarkozy, who endorsed Nigeria's bid for the prestigious seat, at the Houphet Boigny Datcha, France, during a private meeting with his Nigerian counterpart, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, said the gesture is in appreciation of Nigeria's qualitative leadership role in securing the continent in particular and the world at large. :thumb:

Sarkozy also commended Jonathan for the role he played as Nigerian President and as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African Countries, ECOWAS, to restore democratically elected government of Allassane Outtarra.

The France leader joined other world leaders in congratulating Jonathan for his victory at the polls which has won commendation from world leaders for it credibility.

Among those at the meeting were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ima Niboro and some embassy officials.

A source close to the meeting told Sunday Vanguard that the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate in matters of mutual interests especially supporting democratic rule and good governance that will usher in fast paced development.

According to the source, Jonathan had briefed him on his efforts to ensure stability in the region especially in ensuring that the sub region were not left behind in the changing global trends.

Although the source was not specific on the areas Jonathan called for help, it said the acknowledgment by Sarkozy of the leading role Nigeria has continued to play puts it at the forefront of those deserving a voice on platforms where world affairs were decided.

The Nigerian President had arrived Yamassoukro airport at about 9.30am and proceeded to review parade where he received thunderous ovations from natives who struggled to catch a glimpse of him as the man who made it possible for peace to return to their country.

A minimum of 10 leaders of other countries, most of them francophone were at the occasion. After the meeting Jonathan drove to the Houphet Boigny Information Center for Peace where the inauguration took place in a colourful ceremony.

Both Sarkozy and Jonathan intermittently received applauses from the capacity international crowd each time their names were mentioned.

President Jonathan has since yesterday returned to Nigeria, as he is expected to host the UN Secretary-General, Mr Banki Moon to a dinner today evening.

France backs Nigeria’s UN Security Council bid

 

[hello_10]

sir, we all know that having more than 5 Veto's won't ever happen, otherwise there will never be any bill passed in UN

second, Indians would always understand that more they are pushed form West, they have to have more support from East, including Middle East. and the best I find Indonesia in this regard, with Turkey and Egypt also. I mean, more and more West push India, more you gotto give strength to East, on all the aspects, including religious/racial/cultural/social etc. :thumb:

rest, do you find UN really working? check, 2 Veto's were used in support of current Syrian government, which has same type of Asad government as in CHina/Russia itself, while still the whole West with their Arab followers are 'directly' supporting violence in Syria, against the Syrian government in favor of whom 2 Veto's were used????? do you find Veto working in UN even right now? i can't see the same :ranger:

anyway, we do need UN as a platform to talk, as much as possible.......

duplicate post