The controversy surrounding Pakistan as Vice-Chair of the UN Security Council’s Counter.
Terrorism Committee and Chair of the Taliban Sanctions Committee in 2025 is evident in the
discussion that has followed. As announced on June 4, 2025, Pakistan was given the UNSC
position and will oversee measures including asset freezes and travel bans on the Taliban and
affiliated groups. Many have challenged this decision, arguing that Pakistan’s alleged
connections with terrorist groups lessen the legitimacy of the UNSC. Some critics have likened
the decision to allowing a thief to guard a bank. The situation raises questions about whether
the UN is able to keep a neutral presence in global counter-terrorism efforts.
India, known for openly and vocally condemning Pakistan for its terror policies, did not shy
away from condemning this development. Indian officials have made clear that, with Pakistan’s
history of giving refuge to UN-proscribed terrorists, like Osama bin Laden, they consider
Pakistan’s appointment to the body a “travesty of the efforts to combat terrorism.” India pushed
to get Pakistan’s Lashkar-e-Taiba designated and thrown out of the U.N. during its
Chairmanship of the UNSC Counter-Terrorism Committee in 2022, but China (not
surprisingly) consistently prevented it; China supports Pakistan to this day, and a representative
for the Chinese government recently alleged that the Pahalgam attack in April 2025, is not
attributable to Cavalry Mill or, The Resistance Front, a Pakistan terrorist group. Indian
diplomats have publicly stated that Pakistan’s efforts thwart the remembrance and sacrifices of
victims of terrorism.
Around the world, reactions are polarised. Some countries in the West, like France and the
U.S., support the move with reservations, hoping that it might lead to reforms in Pakistan, while
others, like Indian MPs and analysts, think it is only going to set a precedent that sets a
dangerous one – and one that calls into question the effectiveness of the UNSC. Public outrage
spreads on social media platforms like X, with many users dismissing the UN’s decision as a
loss of credibility.
The debate highlights broader UNSC concerns, particularly veto influence (especially China).
As Pakistan assumes these positions, the world is eagerly watching a nation known as a sponsor
of terror. How will this help develop global anti-terrorism policies
