Answer

India’s tenure as a non-permanent member of the UNSC from 2021-22 highlighted its active role in shaping global peace and security. India advocated for reforms in the UN, counterterrorism, and peacekeeping, while promoting the importance of multilateralism. Key lessons from this term include strengthening diplomatic initiatives, building alliances, and aligning domestic policies with global priorities to enhance India’s future influence in multilateral institutions.

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India’s Achievements as a Non-Permanent Member of the UNSC During Its 2021-22 Term

• Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Frameworks: India played a critical role in listing Abdul Rehman Makki, a Pakistani terrorist, under the UNSC 1267 sanctions regime.
  For example: India, along with the United States, co-proposed this listing, marking the first instance of a terrorist from Jammu and Kashmir being listed with India as a proposer.
• Promoting Multilateral Peace and Security: India prioritized international peacekeeping and maintained its commitment to robust troop contributions to UN missions.
  For example: India actively supported initiatives to strengthen the mandate and effectiveness of peacekeeping forces in conflict zones like Mali and South Sudan.
• Advocating for Maritime Security: India highlighted maritime security as a key global issue, stressing the need for safe and secure sea lanes.
  For example: India chaired a high-level meeting on maritime security during its presidency of the UNSC in August 2021, resulting in the adoption of a resolution on this issue.
• Ensuring Inclusive Development: India emphasized the importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and focused on addressing climate change-induced challenges.
  For example: India advocated for increased global cooperation in renewable energy adoption and supported the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
• Championing Reforms in Global Governance: India strongly pushed for reforms in multilateral institutions, including the expansion of the UNSC to make it more representative.
  For example: India’s consistent advocacy highlighted the inequities in current global governance structures, particularly in decision-making processes.
• Effective Use of Diplomatic Synergy: India effectively collaborated with both P-5 and non-P-5 nations to address critical issues like Afghanistan’s stability.
  For example: India convened meetings addressing the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and supported calls for inclusive governance in the region.
• Advancing Humanitarian Efforts: India demonstrated leadership in global humanitarian assistance during its tenure.
  For example: India’s support for the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines through initiatives like COVAX was widely acknowledged.

Lessons to Enhance India’s Future Engagement in Global Multilateral Institutions

• Build Stronger Alliances with Non-Permanent Members: Forge coalitions with nations in the Global South and other like-minded countries for more effective advocacy in the UNSC.
  For example: Enhanced cooperation with African and Latin American nations can amplify India’s voice on issues like climate finance and debt restructuring.
• Proactive Engagement on Regional Issues: Focus on regional stability and use multilateral platforms to counteract narratives pushed by adversarial nations.
  For example: India’s proactive measures during Afghanistan’s crisis demonstrated its capacity to influence regional discussions.
• Strengthen Diplomatic Infrastructure: Establish better coordination among its missions globally to address challenges in multilateral institutions effectively.
  For example: Coordinating with other countries to preempt Pakistan’s attempts to misuse the UNSC for bilateral disputes, such as Kashmir.
• Expand Leadership in Climate Action: Leverage India’s expertise in renewable energy to lead initiatives addressing climate-induced challenges.
  For example: Promote international adoption of initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and CDRI.
• Enhance Public Diplomacy Efforts: Increase global awareness of India’s contributions to peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and development to build a positive narrative.
  For example: Publish comprehensive reports on India’s multilateral achievements to influence international opinion and counter misinformation.
• Diversify Engagement with Major Powers: Balance relations with P-5 nations while strengthening ties with emerging powers.
  For example: Collaborating with both the U.S. and China on global issues like health and sustainable development demonstrates India’s strategic autonomy.
• Institutionalize Lessons from Past Engagements: Create a dedicated body to analyze and disseminate learnings from previous multilateral engagements.
  For example: Document India’s successes and challenges during its UNSC terms and use these insights to shape future strategies.

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India’s 2021-22 UNSC term demonstrated its proactive role in advocating for global security, climate action, and counter-terrorism. The key lesson is the need for strategic diplomacy, facilitating alliances, and balancing national and global interests. India’s voice in global governance should reflect its growing stature.