Context:

India has been recently re-elected to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for the 2025–2028 term. The election took place on September 27, 2025, during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada.

About the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO):

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) established in 1944 under the Convention on International Civil Aviation, commonly known as the Chicago Convention.

·        Its primary objective is to promote the safe, efficient, and orderly development of international civil aviation for peaceful purposes worldwide.

·        ICAO currently comprises 193 Member States, all signatories to the Chicago Convention. Its headquarters is located in Montreal, Canada, serving as the global hub for coordinating international civil aviation policies and regulations.

Governance Structure of ICAO:

The ICAO Assembly is the sovereign body of the organization, consisting of representatives from all 193 member states. It convenes every three years to discuss global civil aviation policies, adopt standards, and elect members to the ICAO Council.

Functions of ICAO:

ICAO plays a crucial role in shaping international civil aviation through the following key functions:

·         Setting Standards and Regulations: ICAO develops and implements international standards and recommended practices that ensure aviation safety, security, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability. These standards guide member states in regulating their civil aviation sectors.

·         Aviation Safety and Security: The organization establishes global protocols for aviation safety and the prevention of unlawful interference, helping countries maintain secure airspace and protect passengers, aircraft, and airports.

·         Facilitation and Economic Development: ICAO works to simplify border-crossing procedures and promotes the liberalization of aviation markets, aiming to enhance the economic growth and connectivity of international air transport.

·         Legal Framework and Cooperation: The organization serves as a platform for international cooperation, fostering dialogue among member states on civil aviation issues. It also helps develop international aviation laws to ensure orderly growth without compromising safety.

About ICAO Council:

The ICAO Council is the governing body of the United Nations' specialized agency responsible for civil aviation. It comprises 36 member states elected for three-year terms and is divided into three parts:

• • Part I: States of chief importance in air transport.
  • Part II: States making the largest contribution to the provision of facilities for international civil air navigation.
  • Part III: States ensuring geographic representation.

India has been re-elected to Part II, reflecting its significant role in international civil aviation.

India's Commitment to Global Aviation:

• • Strengthening international aviation safety, security, and sustainability.
  • Promoting equitable growth in air connectivity.
  • Advancing technology and innovation.
  • Supporting ICAO’s 'No Country Left Behind' initiative.

Conclusion:

India's re-election with a stronger mandate reflects the international community's confidence in its leadership and commitment to advancing global civil aviation. As a founding member of ICAO, India continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policy, regulatory frameworks, and international aviation standards.