The Security Council does not fully represent the world as it exists today,” Guterres said, noting that entire regions, including Africa and much of Asia, remain underrepresented in the body. He stressed that the international community must work together to make the Council more representative, credible and legitimate

Ansar Mahmood Bhatti

ISLAMABAD, OCT 6 /DNA/ – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday called for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, saying the body no longer reflects the realities of today’s world and lacks adequate representation from large parts of the globe.

Addressing a joint press stakeout with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during his four-day visit to Pakistan, the UN chief said the existing structure of the Security Council undermines its legitimacy and effectiveness.

“The Security Council does not fully represent the world as it exists today,” Guterres said, noting that entire regions, including Africa and much of Asia, remain underrepresented in the body. He stressed that the international community must work together to make the Council more representative, credible and legitimate.

The Secretary-General observed that many global challenges remain unresolved because the current decision-making framework does not adequately reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. He urged member states to build consensus on reforms that would strengthen the UN’s ability to respond to international conflicts and crises.

Responding to a question on the long-standing Kashmir dispute, Guterres reiterated the UN’s position that meaningful dialogue remains the only path to a lasting settlement. He emphasized that both Pakistan and India need to engage in constructive talks and said the office of the UN Secretary-General stands ready to facilitate negotiations if both sides desire such assistance.

“The United Nations is always available to support and facilitate dialogue,” he said, underscoring the importance of diplomatic engagement in reducing tensions and promoting regional stability.

The UN chief also praised Pakistan’s diplomatic role in efforts aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran, commending the country’s leadership for supporting regional peace and dialogue during periods of heightened uncertainty.

Turning to the Middle East, Guterres expressed deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the suffering of Palestinian civilians. While acknowledging that Hamas had carried out attacks against Israel, he stressed that such actions could not justify indiscriminate suffering inflicted on innocent people.

“The people of Gaza are facing immense misery,” he said. “What happened was wrong, but it does not mean that hell should be unleashed on innocent civilians.”

The Secretary-General called on the international community to intensify efforts to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian assistance reaches those in need.

Speaking alongside him, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar echoed the call for reform of the United Nations system, arguing that the organization faces a growing credibility challenge due to weak implementation of its own resolutions.

“There are countless UN resolutions, but there is no effective mechanism to ensure their implementation,” Dar said. He maintained that without meaningful reforms and enforcement mechanisms, international institutions would continue to struggle in addressing global disputes and conflicts.

Dar emphasized that reform of the UN Security Council and the broader multilateral system was essential to ensure fairness, accountability and equal representation for developing nations.

The joint appearance highlighted shared concerns over the effectiveness of current global governance structures, with both leaders emphasizing the need for a stronger, more representative and action-oriented United Nations capable of addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.