Guterres Backs Africa’s Push for Permanent UN Security Council Representation

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed support for Africa’s long-standing demand for permanent representation on the UN Security Council.

Speaking on Wednesday, September 23, Guterres argued that the current structure of the Security Council does not adequately represent the realities of the modern world. He said the absence of a permanent African voice remains a major weakness in the Council’s composition.

Guterres described Africa’s continued exclusion from the permanent membership of the Council as unjust and difficult to defend, stressing the need for reforms that would make the body more representative and effective.

He called for changes that would bring the Security Council in line with the geopolitical realities of the 21st century and strengthen its legitimacy when dealing with international peace and security.

The comments come as President William Ruto continues to campaign for greater African representation within major global institutions. The Kenyan president has repeatedly argued that Africa should have permanent seats on the Security Council, with full rights and privileges.

Ruto has previously called for at least two permanent seats for African countries, including veto powers, alongside additional non-permanent positions. He has argued that Africa should have a stronger voice in decisions affecting international peace, security and development, particularly given the continent’s contribution to UN peacekeeping efforts.

The Security Council currently consists of 15 members. China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States hold the five permanent seats, while 10 other countries are elected by the UN General Assembly for two-year terms.

African countries currently participate in the Council through the elected non-permanent seats but do not hold a permanent position.

Guterres’ latest remarks add momentum to calls for reform of the Security Council, particularly from African nations seeking a permanent role in decisions on global peace and security. The broader reform debate, however, involves changes to the Council’s membership structure and requires agreement among UN member states.