The question of Palestine’s UN membership

The recent conflict in Gaza has brought Palestine’s renewed application for UN membership into focus. The application is currently stalled at the UN Security Council (UNSC) due to the geopolitical considerations of the U.S., which insists that membership should follow a negotiated solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Palestine’s Quest for UN Membership

• Historical Attempts: Palestine’s attempts to gain UN membership date back to 2011, when its request was vetoed by the U.S. in the UNSC. Since then, Palestine has held non-member observer status.
• Recent Developments: In April 2024, after the UNSC failed to agree on Palestine’s request due to a U.S. veto, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) voiced support for the Palestinian application. 

Norms and Politics in the UN Membership Process:

• Admission Criteria and P5 Veto Power: The UN Charter stipulates that membership seekers must be “peace-loving” and capable of fulfilling the obligations of the Charter. However, the political veto power of the five permanent members (P5) of the UN Security Council (UNSC) plays a decisive role, often hindering the admission process.
• Historical Context and Court Ruling: During the Cold War, the UNSC deadlocked over multiple membership applications. The World Court ruled in 1948 that the UNSC’s recommendation is necessary for the UNGA to approve membership, establishing a precedent that continues to influence membership decisions.

Global Comparisons and India’s Approach:

• Mongolia’s Precedent: The case of Mongolia, whose membership application was similarly stalled but eventually accepted in 1961 after UNGA intervention, parallels Palestine’s situation.
• India’s Support: India supported Palestine’s membership bid, consistent with its historical stance of supporting all state applicants. This position aligns with India’s long-standing policy of non-discrimination in UN membership issues, evidenced by its support for Pakistan’s and China’s admissions despite bilateral conflicts.

Challenges and Potential Outcomes:

• Geopolitical Implications: Bypassing the UNSC for Palestine’s membership could set a precedent affecting Taiwan and Kosovo’s potential applications, making major powers like China and Russia cautious.
• Possible U.S. Abstention: A less likely scenario involves the U.S. abstaining from a vote, influenced by displeasure with Israel’s actions, which could pave the way for UNGA approval.
• UNGA Actions Against Israel: If the UNSC deadlock persists, the UNGA might consider measures like excluding Israel from its deliberations, similar to actions taken against apartheid-era South Africa and the Serb Republic of Yugoslavia.

UPSC Mains Questions:

Q. Examine the role of the UN Security Council's veto power in the admission of new members, citing historical precedents and their impacts on international relations.