Answer

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) plays a pivotal role in maintaining global peace and security, particularly through its resolutions aimed at countering the emergence of radical regimes. For instance, Resolution 2686, adopted unanimously in June 2023, calls on the international community to condemn hate speech, racism, and acts of extremism, recognizing their potential to incite conflicts.

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Positive Role of UNSC Resolutions

• Setting Legal Frameworks: UNSC resolutions establish legal frameworks to counter terrorism, ensuring global compliance with sanctions and accountability mechanisms against radical regimes.
  For example: Resolution 1267 targeted groups like al-Qaeda, freezing assets and restricting arms access.
• Supporting Global Cooperation: Resolutions provide a platform for international collaboration to address terrorism and radicalism, fostering intelligence-sharing and joint actions.
  For example: Resolution 2593 addressed Afghanistan, ensuring commitments to counter-terrorism and rights protections post-Taliban takeover.
• Imposing Sanctions: Targeted sanctions through resolutions prevent funding and resources for radical regimes, curbing their operational capabilities.
  For example: Resolutions imposed sanctions on ISIL-linked individuals, curtailing their financial networks.
• Promoting Humanitarian Access: UNSC resolutions mandate humanitarian aid delivery in conflict zones, reducing civilian suffering under radical regimes.
  For example: Resolutions on Syria facilitated cross-border humanitarian aid for affected populations.
• Legitimizing Counter-Terrorism Efforts: Resolutions provide legal legitimacy to member states’ counter-terrorism measures, ensuring actions adhere to international laws.
  For example: UNSC authorized operations against ISIL in Iraq and Syria under Chapter VII.

Limitations of UNSC Resolutions

• Lack of Enforcement: Resolutions often face poor enforcement due to limited resources or political will among member states.
  For example: Resolution 2593 failed to ensure Taliban compliance with women’s rights and counter-terrorism commitments.
• Political Divisions: Geopolitical interests of P-5 members frequently hinder decisive actions against radical regimes.
  For example: China and Russia blocked stronger sanctions against Myanmar’s military regime.
• Inadequate Monitoring: Weak monitoring mechanisms undermine the effectiveness of sanctions and resolutions.
  For example: Reports indicated continued terrorist financing in Afghanistan despite UNSC mandates.
• Exclusion of Key Stakeholders: Some nations with regional stakes are excluded from decision-making processes, weakening resolution outcomes.
  For example: India was sidelined in the “Troika Plus” discussions on Afghanistan in 2021.
• Reactive Approach: Resolutions often respond post-crisis rather than addressing early warning signs of radicalism.
  For example: UNSC acted after the Taliban’s rise rather than preventing their resurgence.

India’s Role as Non-Permanent/Aspiring Member

• Advocating Inclusive Approaches: India can push for inclusive decision-making, ensuring regional stakeholders’ concerns are incorporated.
  For example: India emphasized Afghan soil not being used for terrorism in Resolution 2593.
• Promoting Accountability: India can demand stringent compliance measures and regular reviews to enforce resolutions effectively.
  For example: India urged listing of Pakistan-based groups under UNSC 1267 sanctions.
• Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Norms: India can champion stronger norms to curb financing and safe havens for terrorists globally.
  For example: India led initiatives in the UNSC to counter cross-border terrorism.
• Highlighting Religiophobia: India can spotlight issues like religiophobia, ensuring comprehensive approaches to combating extremism.
• Leveraging Diplomatic Networks: India can use its G20 and BRICS leadership roles to align broader coalitions with UNSC priorities.
  For example: India coordinated with the U.S. to ensure terrorist groups’ explicit inclusion in UNSC resolutions.

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India’s active participation in the UNSC, whether as a non-permanent member or an aspiring permanent member, enables it to influence resolutions addressing radical regimes. By advocating for reforms, such as expanding permanent membership to include nations like India, the UNSC can better reflect contemporary global realities and enhance its effectiveness in safeguarding international peace and security.

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