UN chief calls for greater African voice at global body
Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has emphasized the need for deeper reforms to boost African representation within the UN. He made these remarks while initiating an expansion of the UN’s campus in Kenya. Guterres highlighted the ongoing lack of progress due to the reluctance of the five permanent Security Council members to share power. Discussions about reform also involved French and Kenyan officials during a summit aimed at uniting African leaders and business executives.
What we know
- Antonio Guterres stated that the UN must be updated to reflect today’s world, not the one from 80 years ago.
- He described the denial of permanent Security Council seats to Africa as a “historic injustice.”
- Guterres acknowledged that achieving Security Council reform will be “difficult,” but noted some positive steps, such as efforts by Britain and France to limit veto use.
- The UN’s Nairobi campus is expanding as part of a $340-million project to cut costs by relocating staff from New York and Geneva.
- Severe cuts in US contributions under President Donald Trump have increased pressure on the UN to reduce expenses.
