India Advocates for Peacekeeper Protection and UNSC Reform at UN Security Council Open Debate

India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, addressed the UN Security Council on March 25, emphasizing the need for enhanced peacekeeper protection and accountability for crimes against them. He noted the evolving challenges peacekeepers face, including non-state actors, armed groups, terrorists, and technological advancements. Harish advocated for advanced surveillance and communication tools, adequate funding for peacekeeping missions, and the inclusion of troop-contributing countries in mandate formulation. India, a major troop contributor with 5,384 personnel, including 153 women, across 10 missions, also called for UNSC reform to reflect current geopolitical realities. India highlighted its commitment to training peacekeepers and its willingness to share technological expertise. The approved budget for UN Peacekeeping operations for the fiscal year 1 July 2024 - 30 June 2025 is USD 5.6 billion.