UN Secretary General António Guterres voiced his endorsement of Africa’s persistent plea for permanent seats on the UN Security Council. Addressing the just-concluded 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement, Guterres emphasized the long-standing acknowledgment of systemic shortcomings within the council and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to enhance its efficacy and inclusivity.
During the summit, Guterres questioned the continued absence of a single permanent member representing the African continent, expressing disbelief at the situation. He highlighted the upcoming September Summit of the Future as a unique opportunity to deliberate on institutional reforms in global governance, fostering ideas to rebuild trust and strengthen multilateral cooperation.
The UN Security Council, responsible for authorizing peacekeeping operations, imposing international sanctions, and determining the UN’s response to conflicts globally, has faced calls for restructuring to better reflect the current geopolitical landscape.
Dennis Francis, the UN General Assembly president, provided insights into the reform process, emphasizing that it is an ongoing effort rather than an immediate event. He underscored the need for adapting the existing system, established in the post-1945 period, to current geopolitical realities. Security Council reform stands as a top priority for the UN, particularly in light of recent events in Ukraine and Gaza.
President Yoweri Museveni, the current chairman of the Non-Aligned Movement, has been a prominent advocate for UN Security Council reforms that would grant Africa permanent representation. Museveni has consistently asserted that such reforms are not a favor but a right for all peoples inhabiting the planet.
