India has initiated a campaign to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council (UNSC), alongside its ongoing pursuit of a permanent seat. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to formally announce India’s candidacy for the Asia Pacific non-permanent seat in the upcoming elections for the 2028-2030 term. India, known for its anti-terrorism efforts and advocacy for the Global South, aims to continue these roles if elected to the Council.
Tajikistan is the only other country that has declared its candidacy for the Asia Pacific seat, currently held by Bahrain. Tajikistan’s bid has received support from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) since 2023, citing Islamic solidarity as a key factor. India will need to secure two-thirds of the votes in the 193-member General Assembly to win the seat.
During its previous term, India garnered significant support, receiving 184 out of 193 votes. The Asia Pacific Group, consisting of 53 members, plays a crucial role in selecting candidates for non-permanent seats based on regional representation. India’s past contributions include hosting a UNSC meeting in Mumbai, focusing on counterterrorism efforts and the impact of emerging technologies used by terrorists.
India’s candidacy for the 2028-2029 term reflects its aim to reduce the lengthy gaps between its previous UNSC terms, ensuring a consistent presence in the Council’s decision-making processes. With a history of serving multiple terms since 1950, India’s bid underscores its commitment to global peace and security through active participation in the UNSC.
