At UNGA debate, Pakistan warns against adding more members to Security Council, extending veto privileges

At a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) debate on the use of the veto, Pakistan cautioned against adding more permanent members to the Security Council and extending veto privileges. Counselor at the Pakistan Mission at the UN, Gul Qaiser Sarwani, argued that such changes would exacerbate existing inequalities, maintain historical advantages, and heighten the risk of council gridlock.

Sarwani called for comprehensive, democratic, and equitable reform of the UNSC, emphasizing the misuse of veto power undermined the council's effectiveness, weakened the UN's credibility, and perpetuated global inequalities. He underscored the "unique legitimacy" of the UNGA, which, through its universal membership and democratic decision-making, could act when the UNSC, often paralyzed by veto use, was unable to respond to international crises.

Pakistan opposed the creation of new permanent seats in an expanded Security Council and favored either abolishing the veto or imposing strict limitations on its use. Sarwani reiterated Pakistan's support for General Assembly resolution 76/262, which mandates a UNGA debate following a veto to enhance accountability. He stressed that any measures to curb the veto must adhere to the UN Charter and advocated for a balanced approach that combines restrictions on veto use with greater representation and a stronger role for elected UNSC members.

The delegate stressed that addressing the veto issue should go hand-in-hand with reforms in the other four interrelated areas under the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council reform, as part of a comprehensive package. Concluding his remarks, Sarwani reiterated Pakistan's commitment to reform that rectifies existing imbalances, bolsters accountability, and serves the collective interests of all UN members, not just a privileged few. He concluded with a rallying cry: "Reform for all. Privilege for none!"