By Bill W. Cooper
Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has called on African nations to remain steadfast in their pursuit of permanent representation at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Sirleaf, who made history as Africa’s first elected female head of state, emphasized the importance of African unity and collaboration in addressing the continent’s pressing challenges.
“We must not only advocate for our rightful place at the table but also ensure that our voices are heard and respected in global decision-making processes. The time has come for Africa to assert itself and demand a permanent seat on the Security Council,” she urged.
However, the former President’s asserting was contained in a congratulatory comment to Liberia, following its official response, delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti to the report of the AU’s Committee of Ten (C-10) on United Nations Security Council Reform.
The C-10, led by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, presented its report during the 38th Session of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, where Minister Nyanti highlighted the importance of Africa speaking with one voice on this critical matter, calling for continuous solidarity among AU member states.
Minister Nyanti also highlighted Liberia’s longstanding commitment to multilateralism and its dedication to strengthening Africa’s voice in global decision-making, as Liberia’s response at the AU Summit aligns with its broader efforts to secure a non-permanent seat on the Security Council.
Reinforcing its leadership in peace, security, and global diplomacy, the country remains committed to working with regional and international partners to advance the AU’s common position, as outlined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.
In response, former President Sirleaf further praised Liberia’s firm stance, coupled with its diplomatic engagement in advocating for Africa’s common position on UN Security Council reform.
She, however, cautioned, “Africa must remain resolute in securing permanent representation at the Security Council as Liberia’s advocacy strengthens our continent’s demand for a more just and equitable global governance system.”
Congratulating Minister Nyanti on the presentation, Sirleaf highlighted that Africa’s population is over a billion, thus making it imperative for the continent to have a stronger voice in international affairs.
She asserted that securing this position would not only benefit Liberia but also provide an opportunity to advocate for African interests within the Council, adding, “A non-permanent seat will allow us to contribute to discussions on peace and security, particularly in regions facing conflict and instability.”
Meanwhile, the AU has long advocated for reforms to the UNSC, which has been criticized for its lack of representation and inclusivity, as many African nations believe that the absence of a permanent African seat undermines the continent’s ability to influence critical global issues.
As Liberia intensifies its lobbying efforts, the call for a stronger African voice in global governance has never been more urgent, a move that many believed would benefit the African continent greatly.
