India Calls for Revitalisation of United Nations General Assembly and Global Governance Reforms

India Calls for Revitalisation of United Nations General Assembly and Global Governance Reforms

In a recent address at the United Nations, Minister Pratik Mathur from the Permanent Mission of India called for the revitalisation of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and reforms in global governance architecture. Emphasising India’s stance on the matter, Mathur highlighted the importance of respecting the UNGA as the primary deliberative and representative organ of the UN.

Mathur stated, “For the revitalisation of the General Assembly, the sanctity of the Annual General Debate and its associated elements must be restored. Let us strive to make this reform of global governance architecture that is fit for the 21st century a reality in the Pact of the Future that we are currently negotiating.”

Speaking at the meeting of the Ad Hoc Working Group to discuss the “working methods of the General Assembly,” Mathur reiterated that the UNGA is the foremost global assembly of nations, and its legitimacy stems from the inclusive nature of its membership and the principle of sovereign equality of all constituents.

He further stressed the importance of evolving working methods to reflect changing circumstances and realities, as well as the need to enhance the role of the UNGA as the chief deliberative, policy-making, and representative organ of the UN.

Mathur also highlighted the need for inclusive deliberations in the General Assembly, allowing every member state to participate equally. He suggested streamlining the agenda to make discussions more informed and effective, with the consent of co-sponsoring states.

Moreover, Mathur pointed out the need for improvements in the electoral process at the UN, suggesting the use of modern technologies to save time and enhance efficiency. He recommended a time-bound analysis of current electoral practices and the exploration of technologically advanced electronic voting systems.

In conclusion, Mathur underscored the importance of revitalising the UNGA in the broader context of overall UN reform, including reform of the Security Council. He emphasized the need for comprehensive UN reform to reflect current geopolitical realities and address the complex challenges of our time.

The call for revitalisation and reforms in global governance architecture by India signals a proactive stance towards strengthening the role and effectiveness of the United Nations in addressing global challenges.