Opinion - The United Nations (UN), established in 1945, has persistently proclaimed its mission to foster peace, security and international cooperation. Nevertheless, a careful exploration of its structural foundation, particularly the configuration of its Security Council, illuminates an unsettling narrative of inequality. This imbalance is glaringly evident when we scrutinise the representation of Africa, a continent consisting of 55 sovereign nations. Despite playing a substantial role in global peacekeeping
The United Nations , established in 1945, has persistently proclaimed its mission to foster peace, security and international cooperation. Nevertheless, a careful exploration of its structural foundation, particularly the configuration of its Security Council, illuminates an unsettling narrative of inequality. This imbalance is glaringly evident when we scrutinise the representation of Africa, a continent consisting of 55 sovereign nations.
The argument for Africa's representation is further bolstered by its substantial participation in global peacekeeping missions. African countries consistently rank among the largest contributors of troops to UN peacekeeping operations. Despite this pivotal involvement, these nations are denied a voice in the permanent decisions made by the Security Council. This disconnect between contribution and influence manifests a severe power imbalance within the UN structure.
Moreover, this power imbalance often results in African nations merely being the subjects of decisions, rather than active contributors. The African continent frequently finds itself at the mercy of mandates and decisions passed by the permanent members of the Security Council, without any meaningful channel to influence these decisions. This representation deficit has significant repercussions on the continent's autonomy, sovereignty, and development.
A balanced United Nations can redress the injustices faced by Africa and foster a more robust and inclusive global decision-making platform. Prioritising the reformation of the Security Council to include permanent representation and veto power for Africa is a matter of international importance. Such changes would not only enhance the UN's legitimacy and efficacy but also reaffirm the principle of equality and justice the UN purports to uphold.
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