International Organizations

Why has the United Nations Lost Relevance?

Context: The repeated failures of the United Nations in preventing conflicts such as Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan along with veto paralysis in the UN Security Council have raised doubts about its effectiveness in the 21st century.

Relevance of the Topic: Mains: Declining Relevance of the United Nations.  

About United Nations

  • The UN is a global intergovernmental organisation established by the signing of the UN Charter in 1945.
  • It was established with the articulated mission to:
    • maintain international peace and security
    • develop friendly relations among states
    • promote international cooperation
    • serve as a centre for harmonising the actions of states in achieving those goals.
  • It has increasingly come under criticism for its lack of effectiveness in addressing global challenges. Its decline stems from its structural flaws, financial dependence, and failure to act at the times of crises.

Reasons for Declining Relevance of the United Nations: 

  • Veto Paralysis of the UN Security Council: The veto power of the five permanent members (P5) USA, UK, France, Russia, and China has crippled decision-making. E.g.,
    • Russia blocked UN action during its annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its 2022 Ukraine invasion, while the US has often vetoed resolutions on Palestine.
    • Similar vetoes have prevented action in Syria, Sudan, Tibet, and Cold War conflicts, exposing the undemocratic nature of the system.
  • Failure to Prevent Conflicts and Protect Civilians:
    • The UN has been ineffective in major crises such as Ukraine, Israel-Gaza, Syria, and Sudan often reduced to passing symbolic resolutions. 
    • Peacekeeping missions in Rwanda (1994) and Bosnia (1990s) failed to prevent genocide and ethnic cleansing. 
    • The Iraq War in 2003 showed how powerful states can bypass the UN altogether.
  • Selective Humanitarianism and Double Standards: The UN has intervened selectively, for instance authorising NATO in Libya (2011) but failing to rebuild the nation. Humanitarian disasters in Africa and Asia often receive inadequate global attention compared to crises in geopolitically strategic regions.
  • Financial Vulnerability and Dependence:
    • The UN’s financial dependence on a handful of countries, especially the United States (contributing around 22% of its regular budget), makes it vulnerable to political pressures. During the Trump presidency, proposals for an 83% cut in US foreign spending and sharp reductions in UN financing has highlighted the fragility of its funding base.
    • Around 40 nations default on annual dues, while discretionary donations critical for humanitarian operations are declining. This financial fragility raises doubts about the UN’s ability to achieve ambitious goals like the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
  • Bureaucratic Inefficiency and Weak Enforcement: The UN has been criticised for being slow, bureaucratic, and ineffective in enforcement. Even agreements like the Paris Climate Accord (2015) lack strong compliance mechanisms, leaving issues like climate change and terrorism unresolved.
  • Geopolitical Capture and Location Concerns: Critics argue that the UN’s headquarters in New York keeps it too close to Washington, tilting influence towards the US. Relocating or rotating UN headquarters to conflict-prone regions such as Kigali, Kyiv, or Khartoum is proposed to make the organisation more grounded in global realities.
  • Crisis of Courage and Leadership: Analysts argue that the UN has lost its courage to lead, act decisively, or stand up to great powers. This leadership deficit has eroded its moral authority, leaving it as a “toothless and clawless” organization.
  • Rise of Multipolar Alternatives: The growth of regional and global groupings such as G20, BRICS, SCO, AU, and ASEAN shows that states increasingly rely on other mechanisms for conflict resolution and cooperation. These platforms are often seen as more flexible and effective compared to the UN’s slow processes.

Supporters argue that despite its flaws, the UN remains necessary. As former Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld said, the UN “was not created to lead mankind to heaven but to save humanity from hell.” Without the UN, the world may be hungrier, poorer, less safe, and less sustainable.

Key Reform Suggestions for the United Nations: 

  • Expand Security Council membership to reflect contemporary power realities and ensure equitable regional representation.
  • Restrict or suspend veto power in cases of genocide, war crimes, or humanitarian crises.
  • Diversify and stabilise UN financing to reduce donor dependence and enhance budget predictability.
  • Strengthen peacekeeping operations with clear mandates, adequate resources, and rapid deployment capacity.
  • Consider rotation of UN headquarters to conflict-prone or Global South regions for greater legitimacy.
  • Promote multilateralism by building synergy with regional platforms like G20, BRICS, and AU.
  • Strengthening of enforcement mechanisms for international treaties and agreements, including climate accords and arms control regimes.

In its current form, the UN risks becoming a symbolic institution rather than an effective guardian of peace and security in the 21st century. For the UN to regain relevance, it must reform its structure, restore courage in leadership, and rebuild trust in multilateralism.

US to Withdraw From UNESCO

Context: The United States, under the Trump administration, has announced to pull out of the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation), by the end of 2026.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Organisation based question on UNESCO, and the UN.

Mains: Shift from Multilateral world order to Unilateralism & Regionalism. 

US to Withdraw From UNESCO

  • The US would withdraw from UNESCO by the end of 2026.
  • Reasonsfor withdrawal:  
    • Bias against Israel: The US has accused UNESCO of being biased against Israel. 
    • Against the US’s National Interest: The US has accused UNESCO of promoting divisive social and cultural causes and maintaining an outsized focus on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for international development at odds with America First foreign policy.

US’s fall out from UNESCO

  • 1984: The US first pulled out of UNESCO, as it viewed the agency as mismanaged, corrupt and used to advance the interests of the Soviet Union. It later rejoined in 2003 during George W. Bush's Presidency.
  • 2011: The US cut down the funding for UNESCO under the Obama administration after the agency included Palestine as a full member.
  • 2017: The US pulled out from UNESCO during President Trump’s first term.
  • 2023: The Biden administration rejoined UNESCO. The decision was motivated by the concern that China is filling the gap left by the US in UNESCO policy making.
  • 2025: The US has announced to pull out from UNESCO. 

Impact of the US Withdrawal: 

  • Funding constraints: The decision to pull US funding and participation from UNESCO will deal a blow to its work preserving cultural heritage around the world. The US provides a notable share of the agency's budget (8% of the agency's total budget). Though UNESCO has diversified its funding sources in recent years and the US contribution has decreased. 

About UNESCO

  • United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations. 
  • Aim: To promote world peace and security through international cooperation in education, arts, sciences and culture.
  • Members: 194 member states (including US). 
  • Membership of the United Nations carries with it the right to membership of UNESCO. States that are not members of the UN may be admitted to UNESCO, upon recommendation of the Executive Board, by a two-thirds majority vote of the General Conference. 
  • UNESCO gets its funding from contributions by member states, voluntary contributions, fundraising, and other, smaller sources of funding. 
  • Headquarters: Paris, France. 

Key Functions of UNESCO: 

  • The agency focuses on promoting international collaboration in education, science and culture. 
  • It works to improve literacy with a special focus on girls in countries hit by war or disasters, promotes sex education, and equality for women.
  • It is best known for its list of World Heritage Sites (presently has over 1200 World Heritage Sites) which acknowledge places with cultural or natural significance, and preserve heritage around the world. The Rapid Response Facility provides emergency support for natural World Heritage sites during times of crisis. 
  • It also keeps an intangible cultural heritage list of humanity’s most worthy creations.
  • It also helps to set standards on a range of issues including-
    • Ocean protection and coordinating climate knowledge. 
    • Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (AI). UNESCO adopted in 2021- the first global standard-setting instrument on the ethics of AI. 

Important Reports by UNESCO: 

  • Global Education Monitoring Report 
  • Global Ocean Science Report 
  • UNESCO Science Report 
  • World Trend in Freedom of Expression and Media Development 
  • United Nations World Water Development Report 

UNESCO is the third UN agency that President Trump has pulled out of in 2025, following the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). 

The latest move is another blow on multilateralism and reflects increasing distrust of international institutions, especially those connected to the United Nations.

Also Read: Shift from Globalism to Regionalism

Is Israel committing Genocide in Gaza?

Context: There is a growing global consensus that Israel's conduct in Gaza meets the legal threshold for genocide. While the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued binding provisional measures, Israel’s non-compliance and continued assault raise doubts about the credibility of the rules-based international order. 

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts about Genocide Convention; International Court of Justice.

Mains: Crimes against Humanity: Efforts, Institutions and Limitations. 

What is Genocide?

  • Genocide was formally recognised as a crime under international law by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1946.
  • In the aftermath of the horrors of the Holocaust (Germany), the UNGA unanimously adopted the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Genocide Convention) in 1948. 
  • The Genocide Convention defines genocide as acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in substantial part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. 
  • Genocide is considered the gravest of international crimes, and its prohibition constitutes a non-derogable peremptory norm(jus cogens) of international law. This means:
    • Prohibition of Genocide is absolute and universal- All countries must follow it. It cannot be ignored, suspended, or violated, even during war, emergency or with mutual agreement.
    • Any treaty or law that allows genocide is automatically invalid.
  • Because of its status as a jus cogens norm, the duty to prevent and punish genocide gives rise to an erga omnes obligation (one owed to the international community as a whole). This means that all states, regardless of their direct involvement in a conflict, are legally bound to act against genocide wherever it occurs. 

Genocide Convention

  • The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Genocide Convention) emerged as an international treaty in the aftermath of World War II.
  • The convention is the first-ever legal instrument to define and criminalise genocide as an international crime, and a binding treaty to prevent and punish such acts.
    • It was adopted unanimously by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. 
    • The Convention came into force in 1951, and has 153 state parties till 2024. India ratified the Genocide Convention in 1959.
  • The Genocide Convention defines genocide through five acts:
    • Killing members of a group
    • Causing serious bodily or mental harm
    • Deliberately inflicting conditions of life to bring about physical destruction
    • Imposing measures to prevent births 
    • Forcibly transferring children to another group with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a specific national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.
  • The definition of genocide given by the Convention has been adopted by various international and hybrid tribunals, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), and has been incorporated into the domestic laws of several countries.

Being an erga omnes obligation, South Africa, technically unrelated to the conflict in Gaza, claims standing to bring the case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 

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South Africa moves to ICJ against Israel: 

  • South Africa moves to ICJ: In January 2024, South Africa initiated proceedings against Israel at the ICJ, alleging that Israel’s military campaign in Gaza amounted to genocide.
  • Interim order by ICJ: As of July 2025, ICJ has not yet ruled on the merits of the charge, however, it has issued a series of binding provisional measures, including repeated directives to ensure the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza. These interim orders reflect ICJ’s preliminary assessment that a plausible risk of genocide exists. 
  • Humanitarian crisis in Gaza:
    • The Gaza Strip is experiencing a humanitarian crisis as a result of the Gaza war (since October 2023). 
    • Since March 2025, Israel has begun a complete blockade of all food and supplies going into Gaza. The blockage has been partially eased since May 2025 with limited aid distribution. This has resulted in significant shortages of fuel, food, medication, water, and essential medical supplies, with almost half a million people facing starvation. 
  • Global consensus: As the humanitarian crisis worsens, a global consensus is emerging. Heads of state, senior United Nations officials, and leading international jurists are increasingly characterising Israel’s conduct in Gaza as genocidal. 

Establishing Genocidal Intent is Difficult: 

Proving that genocide has occurred requires establishing two essential elements: the act itself and the intent behind it. 

  • Establishing the Act: The first step is to establish the commitment of one or more of the five specific acts (specified in the Genocide Convention) against a protected group.
  • Establishing the Intent behind the Act: 
    • Even more difficult is to establish the specific intent to destroy the group, in whole or in part. This rare intent is what sets genocide apart from other mass atrocities. 
    • It is just not enough to show that the crimes were committed; rather the prosecutors must prove that the individuals as members of a group were targeted to annihilate the group’s capacity to survive or reconstitute itself as a political, social, or cultural entity. 

Scale of Destruction in Gaza: Evidence of Plausible Genocide: 

  • In June 2025, a UN Commission of Inquiry found that Israeli air strikes, shelling, burning and controlled demolitions had destroyed more than 90% of schools and university buildings across the Gaza Strip.
  • Investigative Reports in Gaza points out systematic destruction not only of residential areas but also of critical infrastructure, including hospitals, universities, mosques, water systems, agricultural zones, and cultural heritage sites, as evidence of a policy aimed at making Palestinian life in Gaza unsustainable. 
  • As per the local health authorities:
    • Over 58,000 people have been killed, including more than 17,000 children. 
    • Gaza now reportedly has the highest per capita number of amputee children in the world. 
    • As the starvation crisis deepens, civilians have reportedly been shot while waiting in queues for food and essential supplies.

The scale of destruction in Gaza lend further credence to these claims that Israel had crossed the threshold for committing genocide. Israel has maintained that its military campaign targets Hamas and not civilians, who it claims are affected only as collateral damage. 

Limitations of International Court of Justice

ICJ has held that intent may be inferred from circumstantial evidence, such as the scale and nature of atrocities, patterns of conduct, and dehumanising rhetoric by state officials. 

1. Rigid standards to establish Genocide: 

However, the ICJ’s evidentiary standard for proving genocidal intent remains stringent and has come under increasing criticism. 

  • In Croatia v. Serbia (2015), the ICJ held that genocidal intent could only be inferred from a pattern of conduct if “this is the only inference that could be reasonably drawn” from the acts in question.
    • This means that genocidal intent can only be accepted if it is the only possible explanation for the acts committed.
    • This rigid standard is widely criticised as it dismisses the possibility of genocide if there apperas to be any other plausible motive. Such a restrictive approach risks makes genocide near-impossible to prove. 
  • ICJ needs a balanced approach that weighs all available evidence and discards inferences that are clearly unreasonable.
    • In other words, the presence of other conceivable motives should not automatically negate a finding of genocidal intent.
    • This view is consistent with international criminal jurisprudence. Both the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) have recognised that genocidal intent can co-exist with other motives. 

2. Diminishing credibility of ICJ and rules-based international order: 

  • Israel’s continued non-compliance with the ICJ’s binding provisional measures are increasingly being seen as a litmus test for the credibility of rules-based international order and undermines the credibility of ICJ.  
  • Absence of decisive Multilateral Action: Within the UN framework, a strong case has emerged for suspending Israel from the UNGA, citing its persistent violations of the UN Charter and binding Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.
    • Article 6 of the UN Charter permits the expulsion of a member state by the Assembly on the UNSC’s recommendation if it consistently breaches the Charter’s core principles.
    • In 2024, the UNGA adopted a resolution calling for economic sanctions on Israel, including an arms embargo. The US, in particular, has continued to shield Israel from accountability by repeatedly vetoing most UNSC resolutions. 

A final verdict by the ICJ on South Africa’s genocide allegations against Israel is likely to take years, as it must follow extensive hearings on jurisdiction and the merits of the case. 

Also Read: India's stance on Crime Against Humanity 

India's altered Voting Pattern at the United Nations

Context: India's voting pattern at the United Nations (UN) is undergoing a marked transformation. Annual share of abstentions in India’s votes at the UN reaches an all-time high.

Relevance of the Topic:Mains: Can be used as an argument to support India’s increasing voice (stature) as a rising Middle power; or India’s non-alignment (NAM) in changing global dynamics.  

India's altered Voting Pattern at the United Nations: Key Trends

An analysis of more than 5,500 different resolutions in the UN that India voted on between 1946 and June 2025 shows that:

  • Late 1950s-late 1960s: India’s voting pattern remained volatile until the late 1960s, with the percentage of annual ‘yes’ votes swinging between 20% and 100%. The percentage of abstentions fluctuated between 0% and 40%.
  • In the time period in between: The magnitude of this volatility decreased substantially. India’s voting patterns in the UN became stable, with the share of ‘yes’ votes ranging over  75%, and abstentions under 20%. 
  • From 2019 onwards: The proportion of abstentions by India every year has increased, while the ‘yes’ votes have reduced.
    • Annual percentage of ‘yes’ votes by India has fallen to 56%, the lowest since 1955. 
    • Annual percentage of abstentions has increased to 44%, the highest share in India’s history at the UN. 

Reasons behind the shift in India’s Voting Patterns: 

  • India establishes its own independent position: An increasingly polarised world (greater polarisation between major powers in the UN) has led to India to alter its voting strategy at the UN. This rise in the share of abstentions could help India to establish its own independent position on various issues. 
  • Increasing complexities of resolutions: The increase in abstentions is simultaneously a reflection that UN resolutions have become much more complicated (several different aspects and provisions are bundled up on the same resolution). In such situations, rather than jeopardising bilateral relations, abstention allows diplomatic flexibility and future repositioning of the stand.

Abstention provides emerging and middle powers like India the opportunity to express themselves more freely, rather than merely going along with the consensus or voting against it.  

WHO’s ‘3 by 35’ Initiative

Context: World Health Organisation (WHO) has launched the “3 by 35” Initiative calling on countries to raise ‘Health tax' or ‘Sin tax’ on tobacco, alcohol, sugary drinks by at least 50% by the year 2035.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: About the 3 by 35 Initiative. 

WHO’s 3 by 35 Initiative

  • It is a global effort to increase the real prices of any or all of three unhealthy products – tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by at least 50% by 2035 through tax increases, while taking into account each country’s unique context.

Key action areas of the Initiative:  

  • Cutting harmful consumption by reducing affordability: Increase or introduce excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to raise prices and reduce consumption, cutting future health costs and preventable deaths.
  • Raising revenue to fund health and development: Mobilise domestic public resources to fund essential health and development programmes, including universal health coverage. The initiative aims to raise $1 trillion over the next 10 years.
  • Building broad political support across ministries, civil society, and academia: Strengthen multi sectoral alliances by engaging ministries of finance and health, parliamentarians, civil society, and researchers to design and implement effective policies.

Significance of Health Tax/ Sin Tax:  

  • Prevent global NCD burden: Consumption of tobacco, alcohol and sugary drinks is fuelling the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) epidemic which accounts for over 75% of all deaths worldwide. A recent report shows that a one-time 50% price increase on these products could prevent 50 million premature deaths over the next 50 years.
  • Augment shrinking development aid and growing public debt: These taxes cut the consumption of harmful products and create revenue governments can reinvest in healthcare, education and social protection.

India's Efforts

  • India has implemented tobacco taxation under the GST framework, with 28% GST and an additional compensation cess on cigarettes and select products. 
  • However, bidis (smoked by low-income groups) and smokeless tobacco (SLT) (used by over two-thirds of tobacco users) remain under-taxed. 

India’s current approach to taxing tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages represent a fragmented, revenue-centric model that lacks a coherent public health framework.

BRICS as growth catalyst: 2025 BRICS Summit

 Context: The 2025 BRICS Summit will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on July 6-7. The 17th edition of BRICS Summit focuses on the theme- 'Strengthening Global South Cooperation’.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts about BRICS; New Development Bank. 

Mains: BRICS as platform for South-South Cooperation; Challenges faced by BRICS. 

About BRICS

  • BRICS is an intergovernmental organisation comprising ten countries- Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.
    • The acronym ‘BRIC’ was coined by economist Jim O'Neill in 2001.
    • Founding countries of BRIC: Brazil, Russia, India, and China. 
    • First formal BRIC summit: Held in 2009 in Yekaterinburg, Russia
    • South Africa joined BRIC in 2010, transforming BRIC to BRICS. 
  • New members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE joined BRICS as full-time permanent members in 2024. Indonesia was admitted as the full-time member in 2025. 
  • BRICS was conceived as a counterweight to the Group of Seven (G7) developed economies, and has emerged as a formidable bloc for political and diplomatic coordination among Global South nations.

Objectives:

  • To promote economic growth, strengthen cooperation in areas like trade, investment, and infrastructure.
  • Coordination in global governance and advocating for reforms in institutions like the United Nations (UN) and International Monetary Fund (IMF). 
  • Cultural and social exchange by enhancing people-to-people connections.
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Economic Importance of BRICS+:

  • BRICS+ represents nearly 55% of the global population and accounts for nearly 40% of global GDP, based on purchasing power parity, exceeding that of the G7. 
  • Growing influence in global trade and investment through the New Development Bank. 
  • Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) under BRICS USD 100 billion CRA is established to provide financial support to member countries in times of balance of payments crises.

New Development Bank

  • NDB is a multilateral development bank established by BRICS.
  • Objective: To mobilise resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs).
  • Initial authorised capital: $100 billion.
  • Headquarters: Shanghai, China.

BRICS as Platform for South-South Cooperation:

BRICS grouping has emerged as a significant platform for fostering South-South cooperation in the evolving global order. 

  • Diversified Representation: BRICS+ has included countries from Africa and Asia to enhance BRICS' representation of developing nations. Diverse BRICS gains legitimacy to advocate for Global South issues like fair-trade, climate justice, and technology access.
  • Economic Collaboration: Intra-BRICS integration encompasses free trade agreements and export-oriented strategies, including tariff exemptions and reductions. This encourages regional and inter-regional value chains, reducing over-dependence on Western supply chains. It would ultimately lead to trade expansion, and rise in both inward and outward foreign direct investment. 
  • Financial Independence:
    • The New Development Bank (to finance infrastructure and development projects) is a credible alternative to existing financial institutions (IMF, World Bank dominated by western powers).
    • BRICS nations have agreed to promote use of local currencies in trade. E.g., UAE and India trade in Rupees and Dirhams instead of the US Dollar. The current intra-BRICS trade stands at over $600 billion.
    • The plan to launch a common BRICS currency is under consideration. 
  • Global Governance Reforms: BRICS provides a platform to advocate for a more multipolar world order and reforms in global institutions like the WTO, IMF, and UN. E.g., reforms to the UNSC to include more representation from the Global South. The reforms would benefit Indian industry by ensuring fairer trade rules, better dispute settlement mechanisms, and more balanced development policies.
  • Technology Sharing: BRICS+ members share technology particularly in areas like digital payments and renewable energy. E.g., Collaboration in digital payment systems (India’s UPI and China’s Cross-Border Payment Systems). 

Challenges faced by BRICS:

  • Diverse Interests:
    • Member states have varying economic interests and geopolitical alignments which can hinder collective action. E.g., India and Brazil maintain strong ties with the US, while Russia and China adopt anti-West stances​. 
    • New members like Iran and UAE add to the ideological diversity complicating consensus-building.
  • Lacks Institutional Framework: BRICS lacks formal treaty or secretariat, or enforcement mechanisms and thus relies on consensus-based decision-making​. This makes it difficult for coordination and policy implementation.
  • External Pressures and Sanctions: BRICS members (particularly Russia) face economic sanctions from Western countries. This can limit their ability to cooperate and implement joint initiatives.
  • Internal Economic Challenges: Some BRICS members (such as Brazil and South Africa) face significant domestic economic challenges which can divert attention from regional cooperation.

BRICS+ marks an important step toward a multipolar world and empowerment of the Global South.  The need of the hour is to harmonise BRICS customs ecosystem- including Mutual Recognition Agreements, streamlined documentation, and the elimination of non-tariff barriers to facilitate smoother trade flows and economic cooperation. 

BRICS directly complements India’s long-term agenda of sustainability, digital leadership, and inclusive growth, making Indian enterprise a key driver of the bloc’s future direction.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

Context: At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting in Qingdao (China), India declined to sign a joint statement over diluted language on terrorism, as it did not mention the Pahalgam attack but included militant activities in Balochistan. 

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts about Shanghai Cooperation Organisation; Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure.

Mains: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation- Significance & Challenges. 

About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

  • SCO is a prominent intergovernmental organisation that focuses on political, economic, and security-related cooperation among its member states. 
  • Founded: SCO was officially established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China.
    • Predecessor: It evolved from the "Shanghai Five" group, which was formed in 1996 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan to address border security issues.
    • Expansion: Uzbekistan joined the group in 2001, leading to the formation of the SCO. India and Pakistan became full members in 2017, expanding the organisation's reach in South Asia. 
  • Membership:
    • 10 Full Members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus. 
    • Observer States: Afghanistan, Mongolia are observer states.
    • Dialogue Partners: SCO also has several dialogue partners, including Turkey, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Azerbaijan, Armenia.
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Objectives: 

  • Security Cooperation: SCO primarily focuses on addressing regional security issues, combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
  • Economic Cooperation: It promotes economic cooperation, including trade, investment, energy partnerships, and infrastructure development.
  • Cultural Exchange: The SCO fosters cultural and humanitarian exchanges among member states to promote mutual understanding and trust.

Structure of SCO:  

  • Council of Heads of State: The highest decision-making body in the SCO, which meets annually to discuss and set the organisation's agenda.
  • Council of Heads of Government: Focuses on economic and trade cooperation and also meets annually.
  • Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): Headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, RATS coordinates efforts to combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism. 

Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS):

  • RATS is a specialised permanent organ of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that focuses on combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism within the member states. 
  • Established: RATS was established in 2004 as part of the SCO's broader efforts to address security challenges in the region.
  • Mandate and Objectives:
    • Counter-Terrorism: The primary mandate of RATS is to coordinate efforts among SCO member states to combat terrorism, which includes sharing intelligence, conducting joint operations, and enhancing legal frameworks.
    • Counter-Separatism: RATS also focuses on preventing and combating separatist movements that threaten the territorial integrity of member states.
  • Counter-Extremism: The organisation works to curb the spread of extremist ideologies that could lead to violence or destabilisation in the region.

Significance for India

SCO plays a significant role in the Eurasian region, with member states controlling a vast area, rich in natural resources, and a large population. India’s security, geopolitical, strategic and economic interests are closely intertwined with developments in the Central Asian region. 

  • Energy Security: Central Asian region is richly endowed with energy resources which India is trying to gain access to through Chabahar port construction in Iran and construction of International North-South Transport Corridor.
  • Economic Growth: SCO has high economic potential because 40% of the world's population lives in its countries, and they produce more than 22% of global GDP, that is by 2025, expected to reach 38-40%. 
  • Platform for Dialogue: SCO provides a platform for its members to engage in dialogue on regional and global issues, contributing to peace and stability in the region. 
  • Security Cooperation: RATS is viewed by India as a platform to access intelligence and information and as a solution to regional security cooperation as SCO remains committed to countering international terrorism, drug trafficking and resolving conflict in Afghanistan.
  • Gateway to Eurasia: India’s membership in the SCO is an opportunity for India to engage the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) , thereby Eurasian market. 
  • Connect to Central Asia: SCO is a potential platform to advance India’s Connect Central Asia policy.
  • Balancing Power: SCO is seen as a counterbalance to Western alliances, particularly NATO, and has strengthened ties between China and Russia. SCO membership also bolsters India’s status as a major Pan-Asian player, which is boxed in the South Asian paradigm. 
  • Value alignment: “Shanghai spirit” emphasises harmony, non-interference in others’ internal affairs, and non-alignment - values that India has always cherished and upheld.
  • Forum for bilateral cooperation with China: It is yet another opening, like the BRICS summit last year, to bring down tensions, and ahead of the next informal summit in October in India.
  • Platform for India to engage Pakistan: In the absence of the SAARC summit, the SCO summit gives an opportunity for Indian and Pakistani leaders to meet informally, on the sidelines and to engage in anti- terrorism cooperation. Thus, SCO shall provide a platform to resolve their differences.

Challenges for India in SCO: 

  • Dominance of China and Russia: Russia and China as a co-founder of the SCO are the dominant powers in the groupings, thus limiting India’s ability to assert itself.
  • China’s Belt and Road Initiative: All group members except India have endorsed China’s BRI initiative. India on the other hand has repeatedly opposed China’s Belt and Road Initiative citing sovereignty issues arising out of CPEC.
  • India-Pakistan rivalry: India and Pakistan are in continuous confrontation that makes it difficult to adhere to the idea of “good-neighbourliness” prescribed in Article 1 of the SCO charter.
  • Definition of Terrorism: India’s definition of terrorism is different from the definition of SCO under RATS. For SCO, terrorism coincides with regime destabilization, whereas for India it is related to state- sponsored cross border terrorism.

SCO is part of India’s stated policy of pursuing “multi-alignments.” Hence, India must continue to look for positive engagement with the member nations of this organisation.

India abstains from UNGA resolution for Gaza ceasefire

Context: India abstained from a UN General Assembly (UNGA) resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza for the fourth time in three years.

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about UNGA; Location of Gaza strip; developments in Israel-Palestine Issue. 

India abstains from UNGA resolution for Gaza ceasefire

  • The resolution titled- Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations was introduced in the UNGA.
    • 149 of 180 countries voted in favour of the resolution. 
    • The US voted with Israel and 10 other countries against the resolution. 
    • India was the only country in South Asia, BRICS or the SCO groupings to abstain from voting in the resolution. 
  • In December 2024, India had voted in favour of a UNGA resolution for ceasefire. The latest move of abstention by India makes a departure from India’s position just six months ago. It indicates a growing trend in the government’s policy not to vote on statements critical of Israel’s bombardment of Gaza. 

The recent resolution calls on Israel and Hamas to comply with international law obligations, and an immediate and permanent facilitation of full, rapid, safe and unhindered entry of humanitarian assistance at scale in Gaza, including food and medical supplies, fuel, shelter and access to clean drinking water. 

India’s position in Israel-Palestine issue

  • India announced its recognition of Israel in 1950 and has recognised Palestine in 1988.
  • Two-State solution: India consistently supports a negotiated two-state solution leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine, living within a secure and recognised border, side by side at peace with Israel. 

About United Nations General Assembly

  • UNGA is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations. It is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the UN. 
  • It provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion on international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. It includes discussions on global issues like peace, security, human rights, and other international challenges.
  • It comprises all member states of the UN (193 members). UNGA is the only UN organ where all member states have equal representation (vote). UNGA can grant observer status to the non-member States.
  • The presidency rotates annually among five geographic groups: African, Asian, Eastern European, Latin American and Caribbean, Western European and others.

Functions of UNGA:

  • Responsible for the UN budget
  • Appointing the non-permanent members to the UN Security Council
  • Appointing the UN secretary-general
  • Making recommendations through resolutions (non-binding).

Key Achievements of UNGA: 

  • Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
  • Millennium Development Goals (2000)
  • Agenda for Sustainable Development (2030)
  • Global Compacts on Refugees and Migration (2018)
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Key points about the Gaza Strip:

  • Geographical Location: It is a coastal enclave along the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It borders Israel (north and east) and Egypt (southwest, at the Rafah crossing). Does not share a border with Jordan.
  • Political Status: One of the two Palestinian territories, the other being the West Bank. Governed by Hamas since 2007 after a conflict with the Palestinian Authority. Subject to an Israeli and Egyptian blockade since Hamas took control.
  • Historical Context: It was under Egyptian control (1948-1967) after the Arab-Israeli War. After the 1967 Six-Day War, it was captured by Israel. Oslo Accords (1993-1995) gave partial control to the Palestinian Authority. Israel withdrew settlements in 2005 but still controls airspace and maritime access.
  • Strategic Importance: Highly populated and densely urbanised (~2 million people in ~365 sq. km). A focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with frequent clashes. Economic blockade of the strip affects trade, employment, and humanitarian conditions. 

Bonn Climate Change Conference 

Context: The Bonn Climate Change Conference 2025 begins in Germany.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: About Bonn Climate Change Conference.

Bonn Climate Change Conference: 

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  • Annual mid-year meeting that takes place under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), an international agreement, signed in 1992, that has provided a basis for climate negotiations.
  • The conference usually takes place in June every year. 
  • The conference is formally known as the Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SBs). Along with the annual Conference of the Parties (COP), it is the only other regular climate summit hosted by the UNFCCC.
  • It is attended by the members of SBs- essentially committees that assist UNFCCC’s governing bodies in implementing and reviewing climate change agreements.
  • The meeting is also attended by indigenous representatives, international organisations, scientists, and civil society representatives.

Objectives: 

  • To discuss technical and scientific aspects of climate negotiations, and set the agenda for COP, which usually takes place in November. The results of the negotiations in Bonn are highly influential on decisions made at the COP. 
  • The implementation of agreements set at the previous COP is discussed.

Key Players: 

  • The meeting is led by the Subsidiary Bodies (SBs) of the UNFCCC. There are two permanent SBs of the UNFCCC, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA).
  • SBI assists UNFCCC governing bodies in the assessment and review of the implementation of their decisions. It also facilitates discussions on financial and technical support to developing countries which are party to the UNFCCC.
  • SBSTA advises governing bodies on scientific knowledge related to climate change. It serves as the “link” between scientific advisors at the IPCC and policymakers serving in party delegations at the COPs.

This year’s agenda

  • One of the key topics during discussions will be the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), which is an attempt to identify a common global goal on adaptation, just like keeping temperatures below the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold is a global goal on mitigation.
  • Although GGA was established in the Paris Agreement in 2015, no major breakthrough came till COP28 in Dubai, where parties adopted a framework for defining global goals on adaptation.

Pakistan’s Appointment to Key UNSC Counter-Terror Panels 

Context: In June 2025, Pakistan assumed significant roles in multiple influential committees under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), creating concerns for India. 

Relevance of the Topic: Mains: Implications of Pakistan’s appointment to key UNSC Counter-Terror Panels for India and strategic options available to India. 

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Recently, Pakistan has been appointed to multiple influential committees under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), including:

  • Chair of the Taliban Sanctions Committee: Committee established under Resolution 1988 (2011) oversees the implementation of sanctions against Taliban.
  • Vice-Chair of the Counter-Terrorism Committee: CTC monitors implementation of Resolution 1373 (2001), a core component of the UN’s global counter-terrorism architecture.
  • Co-chair of the Working Group on Sanctions and the Informal Working Group on Documentation: The sanctions group is tasked with evaluating and improving the structure and effectiveness of the UN’s sanctions regimes, while the documentation group works to enhance the UNSC’s transparency, efficiency and inclusiveness. 

This development has raised serious concerns in India, given Pakistan’s historical association with terrorist organisations. 

Why is Pakistan's appointment problematic?

  • The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) kept Pakistan under its grey list from 2018 to 2022 for terror financing deficiencies. This adds to global concerns about Pakistan's credibility and transparency in implementing anti-terror mechanisms.
  • Pakistan has long been accused of harboring and supporting terror groups, including the Taliban, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

Implications for India: 

  • Diplomatic Setback despite Proactive Outreach: Undermines India’s longstanding efforts to project Pakistan as the epicentre of global terrorism. Shows the limited success of India’s recent diplomatic missions to UNSC capitals and multilateral forums and the growing clout of Pakistan-China diplomatic synergy, especially in multilateral decision-making.
  • Increased Risk of Anti-India Propaganda: With Pakistan’s appointment to these key UNSC counter-terror panels, there is a real risk projecting India as a source of terrorism, especially in Balochistan. The counter-terror committee could ask for reports on terrorist activities in Balochistan.

Strategic options available to India: 

  • Use Friendly Chairs and Vice Chairs to block Anti-India moves: Engage with co-chairs and vice-chairs to counterbalance Pakistan’s influence. E.g.,
    • France and Russia: co-vice-chairs of CTC alongside Pakistan
    • Guyana and Russia: Vice-chairs of the Taliban Sanctions Committee
    • Greece: Co-chair of the Sanctions Working Group etc. 
    • Denmark: Chair of the powerful 1267 ISIL-Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee (Russia and Sierra Leone as co-chairs)
  • Continue to raise India’s concerns in the UNSC and multilateral fora. 

India is hoping that these co-chairs and vice-chairs will act as a counter-balance and counter-weight to keep Pakistan’s anti-India propaganda moves in check. 

India plans to push Pakistan on FATF Grey List

Context: The Indian authorities are planning to apprise the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) of the latest evidence related to the terror bases in Pakistan destroyed by the Indian defence forces as part of Operation Sindoor, and the existing terror infrastructure in Pakistan. India seeks FATF grey list re-entry for Pakistan. 

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts related to Financial Action Task Force. 

Financial Action Task Force

  • FATF is an independent inter-governmental body that develops and promotes policies to protect the global financial system against money laundering, terrorist financing and the financing of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. 
  • The FATF Recommendations are recognised as the global anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) standard.
  • Established in: 1989 by the G7 countries to combat money laundering. In 2001, the mandate was expanded to combat terrorist financing.
  • Headquarters: Paris, France. 

FATF Members: 

  • Currently 39 members: 37 jurisdictions and 2 regional organisations (Gulf Cooperation Council and European Commission). 
  • India, China, Israel, UK and USA are the members. Pakistan, North Korea, and Iran are not the members. 

Key Functions

  • The FATF has developed the FATF Recommendations, or FATF Standards, which ensure a coordinated global response to prevent organised crime, corruption and terrorism.  
  • The FATF reviews money laundering and terrorist financing techniques, and continuously strengthens its standards to address new risks, such as the regulation of virtual assets, which have spread as cryptocurrencies gain popularity.  
  • The FATF works to stop funding for weapons of mass destruction.
  • FATF does not address issues related to low tax jurisdiction, tax evasion/avoidance or tax competition.  
  • The FATF conducts peer reviews of each member to assess levels of implementation of the FATF Recommendations. It holds countries to account that do not comply. 

FATF 40+9 Standards

  • FATF issues a report containing a set of 40 Recommendations- intended to provide a comprehensive plan of action needed to fight against money laundering. 
  • In 2001, the development of standards in the fight against terrorist financing was added to the mission of the FATF, thereby further adding 9 Special Recommendations. 
  • Hence, FATF has 40 recommendations against money laundering (AML) and 9 special recommendations against terrorist financing (CFT), commonly known as ‘40+9’ FATF Standards.

FATF Lists:

  • Black List: FATF issues a list of ‘Non-Cooperative Countries or Territories’ (NCCTs), commonly called FATF Blacklist. These countries or territories are uncooperative in international efforts against money laundering and terrorism financing. Presently, Iran and North Korea are in Black list. 
  • Grey List (Jurisdictions under increased monitoring): List of countries or territories with strategic anti-money laundering/countering financing of terrorism deficiencies, for which they have developed an action plan with the FATF. Greylisting is said to limit a country’s access to loans from international bodies. 

FATF Grey List and Pakistan:

  • Pakistan has a fluctuating FATF status. It was initially greylisted in 2008, removed in 2009, and re-added to the list between 2012 and 2015, with a fresh greylisting in 2018 that lasted until 2022.
  • Pakistan was removed from the FATF Grey List in 2022 with the reminder that Pakistan will continue to work with the Asia Pacific Group to further improve its AML/CFT system. Pakistan was told to implement the action plan, which included demonstration of effective action against United Nations-designated terror outfits, individuals and their associates in terms of financial sanctions, asset seizures, investigation, prosecution, and convictions.

The decision making in the FATF is based on technical compliance of its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) recommendations, which is evaluated through the measures taken by the country concerned and on-ground verification. 

IMF’s Loan to Pakistan 

Context: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) allowed an immediate disbursement of $1 billion (around Rs 8,500 crore) under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) to Pakistan. 

The IMF Executive Board also approved Pakistan’s request for an arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) of about US$1.4 billion. India abstained from voting in the IMF.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts related to Extended Fund Facility (EEF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

Extended Fund Facility of IMF

Extended Fund Facility (EFF) provides financial assistance to countries facing serious medium-term balance of payments problems because of structural weaknesses that require time to address.

  • The IMF provides assistance under the EFF to countries that do not have enough money to pay their bills to the rest of the world for the goods and services they import.
  • The reason for inability to pay is the “structural weaknesses” in their economy, i.e., fundamental problems in an economy that hold back growth and development. This includes:
    • Inadequate physical infrastructure
    • Lack of an educated workforce
    • Underdeveloped financial and banking system 
    • Inadequate capital required for businesses.
  • Such assistance is in the form of a loan that has to be paid back, and not in the form of a grant or aid. 
  • Extended means that these countries need more time than usual to pay back the money because they need to bring about “structural” changes.

Key details of Extended Fund Facility of IMF

  • Eligibility: All member countries facing actual or potential external financing needs.
  • Conditionality: 
    • Countries’ policy commitments are expected to focus on structural reforms and  policies to maintain macroeconomic stability.
    • Disbursements are conditional on the observance of quantitative performance criteria. 
  • Review Modalities: Periodic reviews of policies and program implementation, as access to IMF resources occurs in tranches (phasing). The IMF’s Executive Board regularly assesses program performance and can adjust the program to adapt to economic developments.
  • Duration: Typically approved for periods of 3 years, but may be approved for periods as long as 4 years to implement deep and sustained structural reforms.
  • Repayment: Over 4.5 - 10 years in 12 equal semiannual installments.
  • Access limits: Normal access: A member can currently borrow up to 145% of its quota annually and 435% cumulatively.
  • Interest rate: Basic rate of charge + Surcharges
    • Basic rate of charge: The market-determined Special Drawing Rights (SDR) interest rate and a margin (currently 100 basis points).

Resilience and Sustainability Facility: 

  • RSF provides affordable longer-term financing to support low-income and vulnerable middle-income countries undertaking macro-critical reforms to reduce the risks to prospective balance of payments (BoP) stability, including those related to climate change and pandemic preparedness. 
  • Eligible Countries:
    • All Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT) eligible low-income countries.
    • Small states (population under 1.5 million) with per capita GNI below 25 times the 2021 IDA operational cutoff.
    • All middle-income countries with per capita GNI below 10 times the 2021 IDA operational cutoff. 
  • Interest Rate: Very low, often close to the SDR interest rate, with no surcharge.
  • Duration: 
    • It runs together with another IMF program (like SBA or EFF).
    • It must last at least 18 months.
    • Expires when all amounts available are disbursed. Automatically ends upon the termination, cancellation, or expiry of the concurrent IMF-supported program. 
  • Repayment: 20-year maturity and a 10.5 year grace period during which no principal is repaid. 

India’s Response

  • India has conveyed its strong dissent to the IMF’s decision. India highlighted Pakistan’s poor track record using IMF’s funds, pointing to the possibility of misuse of debt financing funds for state-sponsored cross-border terrorism.
  • India abstained from voting in the meeting, as there is no option with member countries to vote against such a decision. 

Over the past 35 years, Pakistan has entered 28 IMF programmes, including four in the last five years, with negligible structural reforms or lasting economic stability. 

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