North East Christian University marks United Nations Day with a diplomatic debate simulation on India's bid for permanent UNSC membership
DIMAPUR — To observe United Nations Day, the International Relations Programme at North East Christian University organised 'The Diplomatic Table', a diplomatic debate simulation on the theme “India’s Bid for Permanent Membership of the United Nations Security Council: Representation, Power and Reform” on October 23 at the Dr. Peter Armacost Hall.
A total of 14 students participated, representing delegates of 12 nations alongside two members of the International Press Corps, according to a press release.
The debate focused on three central questions: whether India’s population, economic growth, peacekeeping contributions, and global role justify permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council; whether the council should reflect present-day global realities rather than the world of 1945, particularly regarding the under-representation of Africa and Latin America; and whether new permanent members should receive veto power and whether the existing veto system requires reform.
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During the discussion, delegates representing India, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Japan, Germany, Australia, and Brazil supported India’s bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council, taking into account India’s increasing global political and economic relevance and its contributions to UN peacekeeping forces.
Conversely, rejecting India’s bid, Pakistan and Italy opposed the creation of new permanent seats and suggested the expansion of elected membership instead. China stressed the need for Security Council reforms while calling for greater representation of developing regions such as Africa, rather than limiting focus to India’s individual aspirations.
Following the debate, country delegates and members of the International Press Corps participated in an informal discussion. The delegates exchanged views on India’s bid, discussed differences in national positions, and explored possible areas of agreement concerning representation, permanent and non-permanent membership, and veto power.