Liberia is embarking on a diplomatic campaign to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026-2027 term. This endeavor marks a significant step for the nation, which last held a seat on the UNSC in 1961, a period during which it championed African liberation and independence movements. The official campaign launch, scheduled for February 10, 2025, at the Centennial Memorial Pavilion in Monrovia, will be presided over by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and will bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, from government officials and diplomats to civil society leaders, religious organizations, youth groups, and business representatives. The event aims to galvanize public support and highlight the potential benefits of Liberia’s representation on the UNSC.
The campaign is spearheaded by a steering committee, co-chaired by Mr. Reginald Goodridge, who underscores the historical significance of Liberia’s candidacy. As the oldest independent African nation, Liberia possesses a unique perspective and a longstanding commitment to global peace and security. Goodridge emphasizes that Liberia’s presence on the UNSC would provide a vital platform to advocate for African interests on a range of critical global issues, from conflict resolution and humanitarian crises to climate change, migration, gender equality, and the fight against terrorism. He further notes that Liberia’s previous tenure on the UNSC demonstrated its dedication to promoting stability and international cooperation.
Securing a seat on the UNSC holds immense potential for Liberia. Beyond the prestige and international recognition, it would offer opportunities to attract direct foreign investment, bolster economic development, and ultimately improve the livelihoods of the Liberian people. Goodridge highlights the potential for enhanced global visibility and the chance to shape discussions on issues crucial to Africa’s future. The campaign emphasizes the valuable contribution Liberia can make to the UNSC’s deliberations, drawing upon its historical experience and deep understanding of African challenges.
Liberia’s bid for the UNSC seat has already garnered significant support across the African continent. The government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has engaged in extensive diplomatic outreach to secure backing for its candidacy. This proactive approach reflects Liberia’s commitment to multilateralism and its belief in the importance of African representation in global decision-making processes. The campaign underscores the message that Liberia’s presence on the UNSC would not only benefit the nation but also contribute to a more inclusive and representative UN.
The campaign launch event symbolizes a crucial moment in Liberia’s diplomatic efforts. It represents a concerted effort to mobilize national support and demonstrate the nation’s readiness to assume responsibilities on the global stage. The gathering of diverse stakeholders underscores the collective nature of this endeavor and the shared belief in the potential benefits of Liberia’s UNSC membership. By highlighting its historical role as a champion of African independence and its commitment to peace and security, Liberia aims to convince the international community that it is a worthy candidate for the UNSC.
The campaign’s core message revolves around Liberia’s capacity to represent African interests and contribute meaningfully to the UNSC’s work. It emphasizes the country’s experience in navigating complex political landscapes and its dedication to addressing pressing global challenges. By advocating for a more representative and inclusive UN, Liberia aims to strengthen the organization’s effectiveness and enhance its ability to address the multifaceted issues confronting the world today. The bid for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC is not just about national ambition; it represents Liberia’s commitment to global cooperation and its desire to contribute to a more just and peaceful world.
