BRICS Parliamentary Forum Condemns Pahalgam Attack, Calls for UN Reforms

The BRICS Parliamentary Forum on Tuesday adopted a joint declaration strongly condemning the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and calling for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including its Security Council, to reflect contemporary global realities.

The declaration, announced by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla following the two-day conclave, reaffirmed the forum's commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border movement of terrorists, terror financing and the provision of safe havens.

The forum stressed that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilisation or ethnic group. It called for zero tolerance for terrorism, rejected double standards in counter-terrorism efforts and urged accountability for those involved in terrorist activities.

The declaration also called for the early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations framework. On global governance, the forum supported reforms aimed at making the UN and its Security Council more just, equitable, democratic, representative and effective. It also condemned unilateral economic and secondary sanctions, citing their adverse implications for human rights, development, healthcare and food security.

Reaffirming its support for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the forum backed a two-state solution, with both countries living side by side in peace and security. It also recognised the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and an independent, sovereign state.

Expressing concern over escalating tensions in West Asia, the declaration called for maximum restraint and condemned violations of international humanitarian law, including attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure and obstruction of humanitarian assistance. The forum further called for stronger international cooperation to address climate change through mitigation and adaptation measures.

On emerging technologies, it highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and information and communication technologies to promote economic growth and social welfare, particularly in the Global South. It stressed the need for safe, secure and equitable access to these technologies while respecting national sovereignty and security.

The declaration reiterated the importance of sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-intervention in internal affairs and the peaceful settlement of international disputes. BRICS members include India, Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.