By Kandeh Sesay
Freetown August 2024 — As the United Nations Security Council considers reforms, African leaders are intensifying their campaign for Africa to secure two permanent seats on the council. The push has garnered significant momentum, reflecting the continent’s desire to address its socio-economic challenges and assert its influence on the global stage.
For many Africans, the prospect of holding permanent seats on the Security Council offers hope that the continent’s struggles with wars, coups, and insurgencies could be mitigated. There is a widespread belief that Africa’s representation could also counter accusations of neo-colonialism and bridge the gap between developed and developing nations.
However, the prospect of gaining these seats raises crucial questions about the political will and integrity of African leaders. While securing a place at the table would symbolize a restoration of African dignity, it also brings to the forefront longstanding issues of political unity and readiness. Critics argue that Africa’s failure to unite under a single political entity, such as the proposed United States of Africa, continues to hamper its ability to present a cohesive front on the international stage.
The complexities are manifold. Some African nations remain economically and politically tethered to their former colonial powers, unable to fully assert their independence. The international order, governed by the principles of sovereignty and international law, often conflicts with the internal dynamics of African states. This raises concerns about how African leaders would address issues like the ongoing conflict between Cameroon’s Francophone and Anglophone regions or the sovereignty struggles in Somalia and Sudan.
The challenge of navigating these issues is compounded by the skepticism of the current Security Council members. The five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—have requested that African leaders present a detailed case for their fitness to hold permanent seats by September 2024. While Africa’s vast geography and large population might support its bid, concerns remain about the continent’s economic stability and political readiness.
As the deadline approaches, the question remains: Is Africa prepared to meet the expectations of the international community and effectively wield the influence that comes with Security Council membership? The answer may well determine the future of the continent on the global stage.
