(Image source from: x.com/lexfridman)
On a recent podcast with American scientist Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the United Nations and various international entities for their diminishing relevance amid escalating global tensions, specifically citing the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the strained relationship between China and the United States. PM Modi remarked that these organizations have become nearly obsolete, indicating that they are devoid of necessary reforms. He stated, "The international organizations that were established have become almost irrelevant, and there’s no reform taking place within them. Institutions such as the UN have lost their effectiveness. Those who disregard laws and rules are acting with impunity, and no one is able to intervene." He also reflected on the insights gained from the Covid-19 pandemic, which revealed the weaknesses of nations worldwide, emphasizing the importance of unity during these turbulent times.
He commented, "The Covid-19 pandemic has laid bare the limitations facing us all. Regardless of how advanced or progressive we consider ourselves to be, during the pandemic, every nation grappled with similar challenges. There was initial hope that we would learn valuable lessons and advance toward a new world order, yet tragically, instead of fostering peace, the world has seen a fragmentation, leading to a climate of uncertainty that is further exacerbated by conflict." PM Modi urged a transition from discord toward collaboration, proposing a development-centric framework as the path forward. He argued that expansionist policies are ineffective in an interconnected world, emphasizing the necessity for nations to support one another.
Here's my conversation with @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India.
— Lex Fridman (@lexfridman) March 16, 2025
It was one of the most moving & powerful conversations and experiences of my life.
This episode is fully dubbed into multiple languages including English and Hindi. It's also available in the original (mix of… pic.twitter.com/85yUykwae4
He added, "As I have pointed out before, the world is interlinked and interdependent. Everyone relies on each other; no one can act in isolation. In various discussions, it has become apparent that conflicts are a common concern. We anticipate finding resolution to these conflicts soon." In his address to the UN's 'Summit of the Future' last year, PM Modi made a vigorous appeal for reform from the podium of the United Nations General Assembly, asserting that relevance hinges on necessary changes. He maintained that global initiatives must align with worldwide aspirations. For years, India has advocated for a seat at the United Nations Security Council, contending that the 15-member council established in 1945 is outdated and fails to reflect modern geopolitical realities. India served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council during the term from 2021 to 2022.
Currently, the UNSC is comprised of five permanent members alongside ten non-permanent members, elected for two-year terms by the UN General Assembly. The five permanent members—Russia, the UK, China, France, and the United States—possess veto power over any significant resolution. The UK, France, and the US have expressed their support for India's bid to join the UNSC.
