NEW DELHI: Some countries are “openly violating” global norms, while others are attempting to establish their own rules to dominate the coming century, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a conference of military chiefs from countries contributing troops to UN peacekeeping missions, Singh said India remains “steadfast” in upholding the international rules-based order even as it advocates reforms in “outdated” global institutions.
“Certain nations are openly violating international regulations, and some are trying to reshape global norms for their own advantage,” he said, without naming any countries.
Calling for reforms in the United Nations and other major multilateral organisations, Singh warned that the UN risks a “crisis of confidence” if it continues operating with obsolete frameworks.
“We cannot address today’s challenges with yesterday’s systems. Without comprehensive reforms, the UN’s credibility will be at stake,” he said, stressing the need for “reformed multilateralism” to tackle global issues in an interconnected world.
Highlighting India’s long-standing role in UN peacekeeping, Singh said nearly 2,90,000 Indian personnel have participated in more than 50 UN missions across the globe.
“Our contribution has not been without sacrifice — over 180 Indian peacekeepers have laid down their lives serving under the UN flag. Their courage and selflessness remain etched in humanity’s collective memory,” he said.
From Congo and Korea to South Sudan and Lebanon, Singh added, Indian soldiers, police, and medical teams have worked alongside the international community to protect vulnerable populations and rebuild societies.
