The Political Framework of "Reformed Multilateralism"

By : Asoke Mukerji

Page No: 124-140

Abstract
The United Nations Charter specifies the primary objectives of the multilateral system as prevention of war, securing fundamental human rights, and promoting social progress and better standards of life. Yet, the UN has been unable to implement these objectives in a holistic manner. As a result, calls for “reformed multilateralism” with a “human-centric” focus have become widespread. The changed political realities of the world need to be integrated into the UN Charter to make multilateralism “fit-for-purpose” in the 21st century. India is among the leading proponents of “reformed multilateralism” and wants the system to reflect today’s realities and needs. The UN, however, is hampered by deep divisions. On one side the entrenched “permanent members” of the UN Security Council refuse to agree to any change in the status quo. On the other are the majority of UN member-states, mainly developing countries that have invested in multilateralism to ensure the implementation of a “human-centric” Agenda 2030 on Sustainable Development. The advocates of “reformed multilateralism” need an action plan by 2025, when the UN marks its 80th anniversary, to achieve their objective.

Author : 
Ambassador (Retd.) Asoke Mukerji, a Distinguished Fellow of the Vivekananda International Foundation, was India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York (2013-2015) and oversaw India’s participation in the successful negotiation of Agenda 2030 on Sustainable Development.

DOI: http://doi.org/10.32381/NS.2023.06.02.1