The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is charged with ensuring international peace and security (peacekeeping, international sanctions and military action)), recommending the admission of new UN members to the General Assembly and approving any change to the UN charter.
More importantly, it’s the only UN body to issue resolutions that are binding on member states.
Now, the question of whether Africa is ready to take two permanent seats on the UNSC has been trending for some time. It’s part of a larger discussion about reforming the UNSC to better reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century. Africa, as the second-most populous continent and one with many global security concerns, has long advocated for greater representation at the UNSC.
Today, we all know that the five permanent members of the UNSC are more or less willing to accommodate the African players. Except the US which are relatively concerned by the veto powers to be given to the new members.
Is it fair? There is no reason why the Americans should be worried about the Africans to handle this new power. What was maybe evident 80 years ago, when Africa was a dark spot on the planet with almost no educated people, has changed today. Thousands of Africans graduated from the most prestigious universities in western countries. Ready to serve humanity entirely, for the benefit of their brothers and sisters.
What are the key points in favor of this integration?
– Historically, the black continent has been exploited and also excluded from all affairs related to the future of the planet. Given the continent’s aspirations and the size of its population and its unexploited wealth, the exclusion is just outdated and unfair.
– Global Power Shift: Many African countries are increasingly influential in global politics, economics, and security matters. It makes sense for their voice to be amplified in the UNSC.
– Increased Regional Security Role: African nations have been more proactive in resolving regional conflicts, contributing peacekeeping forces, and supporting diplomatic efforts. The African Union (AU) and regional bodies have developed mechanisms for conflict resolution, showcasing Africa’s growing role in maintaining global peace and security.
What are the challenges?
Africa Unity? One challenge is the question of which African countries would occupy the permanent seats. In the absence of clear criteria from the UNSC itself and the African Union, we think that the road to the UNSC will be hard and long. And this could create tension among African states vying for leadership. Achieving consensus among African countries on this matter is crucial.
Do we have “capacity” to handle global security Issues? Some critics argue that African countries, while important regionally, may not yet have the political or economic clout to address broader global security issues at the same level as existing permanent members. However, this argument is increasingly contested as African nations gain more influence globally. We believe that it’s now or never that Africa deserves respect not only in terms of geopolitics and also in trading. The economic and financial reforms in place since 1945 are long overdue. This will give more means and power to Africa to play its role.
Who will permanently represent Africa at the UNSC?
It’s a key question to be addressed not only by the political leaders, but also by the academicians, the civil society, and others once a minimum of criteria are set up. None of the 54 countries can make it alone, in a permanent way. We need to deeply think about what we have in common as a continent and what are our aspirations as one people.
The debate is open…
