Africa's Push for Permanent Seats at UNSC Will be Fulfilled, Says Ghana's Ambassador Afriyie

Addis Ababa, March 7, 2026 (ENA)—Even if Africa's claim for its rightful place at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) looks impossible like the Victory of Adwa, this legitimate demand will be fulfilled, Ghanaian Ambassador Robert Afriyie said.

The Ambassador elaborated that Africa’s position has remained the same. But we recognize the negotiating process and it shows how difficult it is. But we have always maintained as Africa the fact that something is difficult does not mean impossible.

He added: "At Adwa, Ethiopia had to stand up and fight. It may have been difficult but not impossible. What we are asking for is legitimate. So, though the process may be long, we are committed to ensuring that Africa takes its rightful place among the committee of nations."

Ambassador Afriyie told ENA that Africa's pursuit for permanent representation at the UNSC has deep historical roots.

Only a handful of African nations, including Ethiopia, Morocco, and Liberia, were present at the establishment of the United Nations in 1945, while many others did not exist as independent states, he recalled.

During a 1963 push for UN expansion, however, there was a strong call for African representation, though significant changes occurred slowly.

Despite the passage of 60 years since the last Security Council reform, the Ambassador noted that Africa remains the only major region without a permanent seat.

“With Africa contributing to approximately 60 percent of the UNSC's work, it is unjust that it lacks permanent representation in decisions impacting global peace and security," Ambassador Afriyie underscored.

Highlighting the ongoing efforts for reform, he cited the significant milestones since the late 1970s, including the establishment of an open-ended working group in 1993 to address UNSC reforms.

In 2005, the African Union set forth a common position advocating for two additional non-permanent seats and two permanent seats with veto power, asserting that without this Africa would be relegated to a second-tier status, the Ambassador stated.

Reflecting on the challenges involved, he said the lengthy negotiation process demonstrates Africa’s commitment to secure its rightful place at the Security Council.

Ambassador Afriyie, who drew parallels to Ethiopia's resilience during the Battle of Adwa, emphasized that Africa is committed to ensuring its rightful place among the committee of nations.

Furthermore, the Ambassador underscored the importance of diverse perspectives in global governance by quoting the Ghanaian proverb: "One head does not contain all the wisdom in the world".

According to him, Africa could play a role in shaping effective solutions to global issues, particularly concerning peace and security.

Despite the complexities of garnering consensus among the 193 UN member states, Ambassador Afriyie noted growing international support for Africa's position.

Countries including France have publicly endorsed Africa's push for permanent representation at UNSC, reflecting a significant shift in global perspectives.

Moreover, Ambassador Afriyie underlined that Africa's united front over the past two decades demonstrates its resolve, insisting that the demand for permanent representation at the UNSC is legitimate and crucial for the generation to come.