AU Chairperson Calls for End to “Historical Injustice” in UN Security Council Reform - ENA English
AU Chairperson Calls for End to “Historical Injustice” in UN Security Council Reform
Addis Ababa, May 11, 2026 —Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has renewed Africa’s push for reform of the United Nations Security Council.
Youssouf emphasized that Africa’s call for permanent representation is rooted in correcting a historical injustice—not in seeking special treatment.
Speaking during a ministerial meeting held on Monday on the sidelines of the Africa–France Summit in Nairobi, Youssouf stressed that the legitimacy of the Security Council depends on its ability to reflect today’s global realities rather than the geopolitical structure established in 1945.
According to a statement released by the African Union, Youssouf reaffirmed Africa’s unified position on Security Council reform during the ministerial meeting, emphasizing that the continent can no longer be excluded from permanent representation despite its growing demographic, political, and economic influence.
“Africa is not asking for a favour; Africa is demanding the correction of a historical injustice,” Youssouf said.
He reiterated that, under the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, Africa continues to demand at least two permanent seats with full privileges—including veto power as long as it remains in place—as well as five non-permanent seats in an expanded Council.
Youssouf also welcomed the support of France, Kenya, and Sierra Leone in advancing what he described as the African model for reform.
He called for stronger political coordination, strategic partnerships, and concrete action to translate growing international support into meaningful institutional change.
He further pointed to the G20 granting permanent membership to the African Union as proof that global institutions can evolve to become more representative and responsive to modern realities.
“The credibility and legitimacy of the Security Council depend on its ability to reflect the realities of today’s world—not the geopolitical order of 1945,” he added.