NEW YORK, AUG 16: Africa’s aspiration to be fully represented in all decision-making bodies of the United Nations (UN), especially in the Security Council, is driven by three key factors.
First, the need to address the historical injustice of Africa’s underrepresentation in global governance. Second, acknowledging Africa’s contributions to shaping the modern world order.
Third, the pressing need to ensure the UN’s legitimacy in the face of new threats to international peace and security, writes Sithembile Mbete for The Conversation Africa.
The Security Council is the most powerful body of the UN. It is the primary body responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Its decisions are binding on UN member states. Africa is the only region without a permanent seat, despite representing 54 of the 193 members of the UN and 17% of the world’s population.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for urgent reform of the Security Council, criticizing its outdated structure and lack of representation for Africa, which he argued undermines the body’s credibility and global legitimacy.
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