Pakistan has called the abolition or strict limitation of veto power in the UN Security Council “inevitable.” Its UN representative, Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, warned that the current power imbalance is dangerous. He said misuse of veto authority harms international peace. The statement came during a debate at the UN General Assembly. Pakistan highlighted growing global security challenges linked to major power rivalries.
Asim Iftikhar expressed concern that veto misuse blocks fair decision-making in the UN. He said the General Assembly remains the largest platform for global democratic processes. Yet veto abuse undermines its effectiveness. He argued that improper use complicates issues of international peace and security. Power rivalries among major nations, he noted, directly contribute to this misuse.
Pakistan also opposed proposals to increase permanent seats in the Security Council. Asim Iftikhar warned that adding members with veto rights would worsen the power imbalance. He said expansion could cement inequalities and deepen geopolitical divides. Pakistan stressed that extending veto privileges is unacceptable. The country believes this approach would weaken global governance rather than improve it.
Calling the veto the “core obstacle to reform,” Pakistan urged either its elimination or strict restrictions on its use. Ahmed emphasized that meaningful Security Council reform is impossible while veto powers remain unchecked. He stressed that any extension of veto rights is unacceptable. Limiting the veto is a practical alternative until full abolition is feasible. Pakistan linked this reform to strengthening global peace frameworks.
To make the Council more democratic, Pakistan proposed doubling elected non-permanent members from 10 to 20. Ahmed said this would give more countries a voice in shaping international security. Increasing non-permanent seats, he added, would help balance power and improve representation. Pakistan concluded that reforms must focus on both limiting veto power and enhancing democratic participation. The country continues to advocate these changes at the UN.
