Why do Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan seek permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council?

Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan—collectively known as the G-4—seek permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council primarily to address concerns that the council’s current composition is outdated.1

Critics argue that the existing structure, including the five permanent members, reflects the global power dynamics that existed at the end of World War II, a time when much of the world remained under colonial rule. By seeking permanent membership or special status, these nations aim to modernize the council to better represent contemporary geopolitical realities.1

The G-4 countries have proposed expanding the Security Council to 25 seats, which would include adding six new permanent members—one for each of the G-4 nations and two for Africa. These efforts are part of broader, ongoing discussions regarding the need for greater transparency and more equitable representation within the UN's principal organ responsible for maintaining international peace and security.12