Algeria Urges Greater African Representation on UN Security Council

13 August

Algeria has called for a greater role for African nations in the UN Security Council, stressing the need for African perspectives and accountability. This appeal was made by Algerian Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Lounes Magramane during a recent Security Council meeting in New York, which centered on expanding Africa’s representation.

 

"The backdrop of this meeting is a series of challenges undermining global peace and security. We are witnessing heightened polarization among major powers, the erosion of international law, the application of double standards, and a selective approach in the UN’s priorities," Magramane remarked.

 

He further criticized the increasing tendency of various parties to use force to address disputes, which he believes threatens the security architecture. "The Security Council is nearly paralyzed, operating in the interests of powerful states while the international community watches crises unfold without effective intervention," he added.

 

Magramane highlighted Africa’s suffering, particularly in the Sahel region, and reiterated the urgent need for Security Council reform. "We strongly believe that the Security Council requires the insight, reason, and responsibility of African nations," he asserted.

 

Addressing historical injustices, he advocated for Africa’s inclusion among the permanent members of the Security Council. "Africa deserves two permanent seats and two non-permanent seats. We also call for reforms that ensure the Security Council can effectively address peace and security challenges," Magramane stated.

 

He also emphasized that increasing the Security Council’s membership alone is not enough for effective functioning. "Permanent members must show genuine commitment by addressing the legitimate aspirations and goals of African countries," he concluded.

 

Algeria, which will serve as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2024-2025, participated in the New York meeting chaired by Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio, who leads the "Committee of Ten" of African Union heads of state and government focused on Security Council reform.

 

 

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Photo: Mathias Reding/Unsplash

Based on materials from TASS