Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, on Wednesday forcefully advocated for the urgent reform of the United Nations structure, asserting that the nearly 80-year-old body is ill-equipped to handle contemporary global challenges. He made the remarks while addressing the 26th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World, held at the India International Centre in New Delhi.
Speaker Birla stressed that any reformation of global governance mechanisms must prioritize democracy, fairness, and inclusivity, ensuring a proper voice and representation for the Global South.
“The 80-year-old structure of the United Nations needs to be reformed to suit today’s global challenges,” Speaker Birla stated.
“Reforms in global governance must be democratic, fair, and inclusive so that the Global South receives proper representation.” He argued that threats like war, terrorism, climate change, and digital threats necessitate a coordinated and collective global response.
“Challenges such as war, terrorism, climate change, and digital threats can be resolved only through collective global cooperation,” he added, highlighting the necessity of multilateral action.
Referencing India’s ancient tradition of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family), the Speaker highlighted the nation’s steadfast commitment to peace, cooperation, and just international relations. He proudly referred to India as the “mother of democracy.”
To underscore India’s global commitment, he cited Article 51 of the Indian Constitution, which directs the state to promote international peace and security. He further pointed to India’s long history of contributing to UN peace missions and its vital role during the COVID-19 crisis.
“India, known as the mother of democracy, has always stood for global peace, cooperation, and just relations,” Birla noted. He revealed that India has contributed more than 300,000 soldiers for world peace efforts. Speaking on the pandemic, he emphasized, “India played the role of a ‘Global Pharmacy’ by providing medicines to 150 countries during the COVID crisis,” showcasing the country’s spirit of humanitarian assistance.
Turning the attention to the judiciary, the Speaker stressed the importance of global courts collaborating to address modern legal challenges.
He called for joint efforts in critical areas, including environmental justice, sustainable development, and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), urging the Chief Justices to lead the way in adapting legal frameworks.
The conference, which brings together top judicial minds from around the world, serves as a key platform for discussing common legal challenges and promoting the rule of law globally.