Narendra Modi: 1st Indian PM to chair UNSC debate

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually preside over an open debate at United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on August 9, 2021.

Highlights

• Debate will be held on the issue of maritime security at UNSC.
• India is holding presidency of UNSC for August and Narendra Modi has become the first Indian Prime Minister to chair an open debate at UNSC.
• After getting elected to UNSC, India highlighted its goal of promoting responsible and inclusive solutions to international peace and security. India would also pitch for a reformed multilateral system.

India at UNSC

India started its two-year tenure as non-permanent member of UNSC on January 1, 2021. It is India’s seventh term on UNSC as a non-permanent member. Earlier, India has been a member of UNSC in 1950-51, 1967-68, 1972-73, 1977-78, 1984-85, and 1991-92.

United Nations Security Council (UNSC)

UNSC is one among six principal organs of United Nations (UN). It has been tasked with ensuring international peace and security. It also recommends admission of new members at UNSC and approve any changes to UN Charter. Some of its functions and powers include- establishment of peacekeeping operations, enactment of international sanctions and authorization of military action. It is the only UN body having the authority to issue binding resolutions on member states.

Background

UNSC was created after World War II when League of Nations failed to maintain world peace. First session of UNSC was held on January 17, 1946. UNSC had authorized military interventions in Korean War and Congo Crisis as well as peacekeeping missions in Suez Crisis, Cyprus, and West New Guinea.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2021