PRETORIA, South Africa — South Africa has announced that it will use the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to renew its campaign for comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council, with a particular focus on securing permanent representation for Africa.
The South African government said reform of the Security Council will remain one of its key diplomatic priorities when world leaders gather at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The 81st UN General Assembly is scheduled to open on September 8, while the annual General Debate—where heads of state and government address the Assembly—will begin on September 22.
According to the government, South Africa will continue advocating for a more representative, equitable, and inclusive multilateral system that better reflects today’s global political realities. Central to that effort is the long-standing African position that the continent should be granted permanent representation on the Security Council.
Africa currently comprises 54 member states of the United Nations, making it the largest regional bloc within the organization. Despite this, the continent does not hold a permanent seat on the 15-member Security Council, whose five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—possess veto power over Council decisions.
South Africa has consistently supported the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, the African Union’s common position on Security Council reform. Under that position, Africa seeks at least two permanent seats with full veto rights, if the veto is retained, and five non-permanent seats on a reformed Council.
The government argues that expanding Africa’s representation would enhance the legitimacy, credibility, and effectiveness of the Security Council, particularly given the continent’s significant role in international peace and security discussions. African countries frequently contribute troops to United Nations peacekeeping operations and are regularly involved in Security Council deliberations on conflicts, humanitarian crises, and post-conflict reconstruction.
South Africa’s renewed diplomatic campaign comes as discussions on reforming the United Nations continue to gain momentum among member states seeking a governance structure that better reflects contemporary geopolitical realities. Pretoria has reaffirmed its intention to work closely with the African Union and international partners during the General Assembly to advance Africa’s common position on Security Council reform.
As preparations continue for the opening of the 81st UN General Assembly, South Africa is expected to use the global forum to build support for a more inclusive international system in which Africa has a stronger voice in decisions affecting international peace and security.