The quest for permanent African representation in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has been a longstanding issue, deeply rooted in the continent’s historical, political, and social situation. After the decolonization wave in the mid-20th century, African nations emerged with a strong desire for greater representation and influence in global governance structures.
Almost 80 years later, Africa has been unrepresented and largely remained a missing entity in the UNSC, even when its internal political and security matters are discussed and decisions are passed.
The push for a permanent African seat in the UNSC is not merely about gaining influence; it is also about rectifying historical injustices and ensuring that the voices of African nations are heard in discussions that impact their futures. The lack of representation is often seen as a continuation of colonial legacies, where African voices were marginalized in international affairs.
The quest for a permanent seat has gained stimulus over the years, especially following the African Union’s (AU) endorsement of the Ezulwini Consensus in 2005. The proposal highlighted the continent’s resolve to participate in and influence global governance structures that have factually marginalized it. However, the Ezulwini Consensus is not yet achieving its goals.
The absence of the populous and biggest continent from the international bloc made the path to peace and conflict resolution elusive. The resolutions that the UNSC passes and the directions it sets mostly go unheeded and unyielding due to the continent’s exclusion in the process.
Since recently, the exclusion of the 1.5 billion continent from the security bloc has raised serious concerns about the fairness and efficacy of the global governing system. This concern gained traction and intensity lately with African countries like Ethiopia setting the tone and spearheading the efforts.
The significance of Africa’s quest for permanent seats in the UNSC extends beyond mere representation. It is fundamentally about ensuring that African perspectives and interests are integrated into global decision-making processes.
The expected Ezulwini Consensus and request the permanent seats in the UNSC reflect the understanding among African nations that a seat at the table is crucial for addressing issues and ensuring sustainable development on the continent.
But not yet, the persistent challenges such as security threats, famine, drought, and terrorism as product of systemic inequities faced by the continent of 55 nations. The absence of a permanent seat in the UNSC has become a focal point for many advocating for reform of the international system.
While the question of representation takes root, experts have been signaling the need to elevate Africa’s positions in different spheres for the continent to exercise its deserved places to the fullest.
However, achieving this goal according to experts will require more than diplomatic efforts; it necessitates a concerted push to harness technological advancements and improve governance structures within African nations.
Moreover, some experts argue that instead of focusing solely on securing permanent seats at the UN, African nations should pursue the right to vote powers. This strategy could provide a more effective means of influencing decisions that impact the continent, ensuring that African voices are heard and considered in global governance.
In August 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reignited this long-standing issue, asserting the necessity for African representation in the UNSC. He argued that the Council’s current membership does not reflect global dynamics and that Africa’s exclusion is increasingly untenable.
Guterres emphasized that Africa’s exclusion from critical discussions is increasingly untenable, as the continent grapples with unique challenges that require effective and relevant solutions.
With a population expected to be two billion by 2050, Africa’s absence from the UNSC not only undermines its interests but also hampers global efforts toward peace and security.
Experts agree that securing a permanent seat for Africa in the UNSC could significantly enhance the continent’s ability to face its distinct challenges. This representation is crucial, as it would allow African nations to engage more directly in discussions about pressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and conflict resolution, all of which disproportionately affect African states.
Guterres has reiterated the urgency of this matter, expressing hope for reforms that would ensure Africa’s representation in the UNSC.
He stated that highlighting the need for resolute actions and renewed cooperation among African nations and the international community. The call for a permanent seat is not merely about representation; it is about reshaping the narrative surrounding Africa’s role in the global arena.
By participating in the UNSC, African countries would have the opportunity to articulate their needs, set agendas, and amplify their voices on issues that matter most to them.
The implications of such a shift are profound. A permanent seat would empower Africa to advocate more effectively for its interests and craft solutions that are equitable and just.
This engagement could alter perceptions of Africa from a continent often seen as steeped in crises to one recognized for its potential and leadership. However, the path to achieving this goal is fraught with challenges.
Worku Yakob (PhD), General Director of African Change for Interaction and Think Tank emphasized that securing a permanent seat requires significant groundwork and collaboration at the country level.
He noted that many African nations have drifted away from a culture of collective development and mutual agreement, which has fostered conflict and eroded trust. This lack of unity undermines confidence in any single country chosen to represent the continent, as often the elected nation finds itself constrained by external (particularly Western) influences that can impede its advocacy for African interests.
To address these challenges, Worku suggested that rather than pursuing individual representation at the UN, Africa should present a united front through the African Union. The approach could enhance collective bargaining power and ensure that Africa’s interests are more effectively represented.
Tesfaye Abate (PhD) is a law professor and legal advisor at the Ethiopian Civil Service University. He emphasizes the critical need for Africa to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
He argued that such representation would empower the continent to address its unique challenges more effectively. “The contributions of Africa to global peacekeeping and conflict resolution are often overlooked,” he asserted, highlighting that this oversight leaves the continent vulnerable to decisions made without its input.
The absence of a permanent seat on the UNSC has significant implications for Africa’s developmental aspirations. Developing countries on the continent, striving for growth and stability, often find their progress stifled by a lack of representation in crucial international discussions, he added.
A permanent seat would enable African nations to participate actively in voting on issues that directly affect their futures, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable development. This inclusion is vital for establishing policies that resonate with the realities and needs of African societies.
While the journey toward securing a permanent seat for Africa in the UNSC is fraught with challenges, it is a goal that must be pursued vigorously. Abate asserts that Africa’s voice should not only be heard but also hold influential power in shaping the future of global governance.
The time has come for the United Nations to recognize Africa’s rightful place on the global stage. This recognition would reflect the continent’s demographic and geopolitical significance, enhancing the effectiveness of the Council in promoting peace and security worldwide.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024
