Putin demands UN reform against Western countries’ influence

Russian President Vladimir Putin urged for urgent reform of the United Nations on Thursday, seeking to grant countries from all continents a more substantial role in the global body. Delivering remarks at the Valdai Discussion Club's annual meeting, Putin emphasized the UN's charter, which outlines the organization's role as a central coordinating authority in international affairs.

Despite being the most representative international organization, Putin contended that the UN fails to fully embody collective and democratic principles in its management, as compared to its original design. He pointed out that a select Western bloc enjoys a disproportionately large influence, effectively representing a global minority while attempting to monopolize administrative functions.

Putin observed that this imbalance is becoming increasingly evident as countries perceive their influence waning and are "taken over by a more independent and confident global majority." He reiterated Russia's commitment to a fair reform of the UN, acknowledging that substantial changes may be challenging to achieve due to the lack of internal consensus.

Putin expressed the desire for a UN structure that accurately reflects global diversity, allowing countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East to assume a far greater role. According to Putin, UN reform encompasses more than merely increasing the size of the Security Council or implementing measures for more equitable geographical representation within international governance bodies.

It also involves redefining the UN's substance and priorities, particularly in light of emerging global dilemmas that were previously unforeseen.