India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday expressed concern over the functioning of the United Nations, saying “all is not well” within the institution and that its decisions often fail to reflect global priorities. He highlighted the limitations of the UN’s decision-making and cited the example of a Security Council member shielding a terror group responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack.

Speaking at the launch of a postage stamp commemorating the 80th anniversary of the UN, Jaishankar praised the sacrifices of Indian UN peacekeepers and recalled the recently held Chiefs of Army Staff conclave in New Delhi, which hosted representatives from 30 troop-contributing nations.

“UN debates have become increasingly polarised, and its working is visibly gridlocked,” he said, stressing that reforms are often blocked through the reform process itself. He warned that financial constraints further challenge the UN’s ability to maintain credibility and sustain its operations. Jaishankar underscored the risks of equating victims and perpetrators of terrorism in international strategy, questioning the sincerity of multilateral mechanisms.

Highlighting the broader implications, the minister said ongoing conflicts and stalled global development efforts disproportionately affect the Global South. Despite these challenges, he reaffirmed India’s commitment to multilateralism. “Even if flawed, the United Nations must be supported, and our faith in international cooperation must be renewed,” he added.

Jaishankar concluded by reiterating India’s commitment to peace, security, and development. “India has always been and will continue to be a strong votary of the United Nations, reflected in our steadfast support for peacekeeping,” he said. The UN’s 80th anniversary, he noted, serves as a reminder of the importance of global cooperation and shared responsibility in addressing today’s complex challenges.