Jaishankar tells UN to lead, not watch global crises, urging stronger international cooperation to tackle conflict, terrorism, economic distress and technological disruption. Speaking on October 25, 2026, at the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar argued that reforming multilateral institutions has become essential as major global challenges increasingly affect countries with little influence over international decisions.
Why the United Nations Must Change
Established after the Second World War, the United Nations was designed to promote peace, security and international cooperation. However, divisions among major powers have repeatedly constrained its ability to respond effectively to conflicts.
Jaishankar argued that the UN must demonstrate leadership rather than remain a spectator to wars in Ukraine and West Asia. His remarks reinforce India's longstanding demand for reformed multilateralism, including a more representative international decision-making system that gives greater voice to Asia, Africa, Latin America and other developing regions.
Terrorism Cannot Become an Instrument of Statecraft
Jaishankar described terrorism as a serious threat to global peace and rejected attempts to justify or rationalise it. He specifically condemned its use as an instrument of statecraft, arguing that international responses remain inadequate when countries allow political considerations to weaken counterterrorism efforts.
For India, the message carries particular significance given its longstanding concerns about cross-border terrorism. New Delhi's position is that international cooperation must move beyond verbal condemnation towards consistent accountability, intelligence-sharing and effective action against terrorist networks.
The Global South’s Fourfold Economic Crisis
Jaishankar highlighted what he called the “4F crisis” confronting developing economies: finance, fuel, food and fertiliser. Conflicts, supply-chain disruptions, commodity-price volatility and financial constraints can intensify these pressures.
He called for urgent economic de-risking, diversified supply options and greater dialogue between developed and developing nations. His argument was that the Global North also has a direct interest in addressing these challenges because economic instability travels across borders.
Artificial Intelligence Must Benefit Everyone
Describing artificial intelligence as the “mother of all change,” Jaishankar warned against concentrating its benefits and control in the hands of a few countries or corporations. India supports a responsible, inclusive and human-centric approach that considers technological access, safety, employment and governance.
From Diplomatic Appeals to Global Action
Jaishankar's message connects institutional reform, counterterrorism, economic resilience and equitable technological development. The real challenge is converting these priorities into measurable outcomes. A credible multilateral order must give nations both a voice in decisions and confidence that global institutions can act when crises emerge. Without meaningful reform, demands for a more representative and effective United Nations will only grow louder.
(With agency inputs)
