Addressing Historical Injustice: President Bio's Call for UN Security Council Reform
Statement by His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, at the United Nations Security Council Debate on International Peace and Security - August 12, 2024
In an address marked by urgency and resolve, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone spoke at the United Nations Security Council, calling for a transformative reform of the Council. His speech underscored the need to address the long-standing historical injustice and amplify Africa's representation within this vital global body.
President Bio began by expressing gratitude to key UN figures, including Secretary-General António Guterres, for their insightful contributions. He also acknowledged the vital role played by the African Union Committee of Ten Heads of State (C-10) in advocating for these essential reforms.
The Core of the Issue: A Historical Injustice
President Bio highlighted the glaring disparity in the Security Council's composition, which remains rooted in a world order established nearly 80 years ago. This outdated structure undermines the Council's legitimacy and perpetuates an injustice that has hampered Africa's role in global governance. Despite being home to over 1.3 billion people and comprising 28% of the UN's membership, Africa's presence in the Security Council is minimal, a stark reflection of a broader historical neglect.
The Impact of Colonial Legacies
He traced this underrepresentation to the colonial era when Africa was excluded from key international decisions that shaped its future. The legacy of colonialism, exploitation, and political marginalization has left Africa with scars that continue to affect its development, stability, and global influence. The current structure of the Security Council, he argued, fails to recognize Africa's growing importance and contributions.
Africa's Call for Fair Representation
As the coordinator of the C-10, Sierra Leone has been at the forefront of the push for reform. Through the Common African Position, articulated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, Africa demands two permanent seats and additional non-permanent seats in the Security Council. Furthermore, Africa seeks the abolition of the veto power, or at the very least, its extension to all new permanent members as a matter of justice.
President Bio emphasized that rectifying this historical injustice is not just about fairness; it's about ensuring the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Security Council. Africa's inclusion would unlock the continent's full potential, allowing it to contribute more meaningfully to global peace and security.
The Path Forward: Reform and Inclusion
President Bio outlined the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the Security Council. He called for expanding the Council's membership, including adding permanent seats for Africa. He also urged the UN to prioritize Africa's concerns within the framework of these reforms, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the root causes of conflict and instability on the continent.
The inclusion of the African Union in the G20, he noted, is a step in the right direction. However, he stressed that the UN must now follow suit by treating Africa as a special case in the reform process.
A Call for Action
In closing, President Bio issued a powerful call to action. The time for half-measures and incremental progress is over, he declared. Africa's voice must be heard, and its demands for justice and equity must be met. He urged the UN to seize this opportunity to forge a more just and inclusive world order, one that honours the dignity and aspirations of all nations, regardless of their size or stature.
The time for change is now," he concluded. "Africa cannot wait any longer.
President Bio's address serves as a compelling reminder of the need to rectify historical injustices and build a more inclusive and effective global governance system. His words resonate not just with Africa, but with all nations that seek a fairer and more just world.