Africa, the Security Council, and the mpox outbreak

By Fidel Amakye Owusu

Earlier this month, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio called for reform of the United Nations Security Council. He argued that Africa should have permanent representation or, at the very least, an increase in non-permanent seats.

Advocates for reform often point out that the current UN system was established by the victors of World War II, which has led to a structure dominated by those powers. However, some believe that the international framework is not in need of major changes. They argue that since the world has avoided a third world war, the UN has been effective and fulfilled its purpose.

This view overlooks the numerous inter-state wars and conflicts that have occurred, resulting in millions of deaths since the UN was established.

In principle, I agree that, after more than 70 years, the United Nations could benefit from some reforms, and any changes should ensure that Africa is properly represented. However, I am more convinced that African leaders should prioritize taking responsibility for their own countries and region before seeking permanent seats on the Security Council.

While the Security Council holds significant power, history shows that a permanent seat is not necessary for a country or region to develop. Japan and Germany, for example, have thrived without permanent seats, and China’s rise to prominence has not been solely because of its position in the Security Council.

The development of any country or group of countries fundamentally depends on the determination of its people and the presence of responsible leadership. This is what Africa needs most right now – more focus on internal development rather than seeking influence at Turtle Bay.

Though Africa’s colonial past is important and cannot be ignored, it is time to look forward. In the 21st century, challenges like the mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) require global cooperation but should be primarily led by strong regional and continental institutions. The leadership displayed by West African countries during the Ebola outbreak a decade ago needs to be replicated in tackling current and future health crises.

Enhanced regional cooperation among African states is also crucial. There remains no consensus within Africa on which country should hold a permanent seat if one were to be allocated, and there is a troubling lack of regional leadership in addressing some of the continent’s long-standing conflicts, such as those in Sudan, the DR Congo, political instability in Somalia, and extremism.

In conclusion, a permanent seat on the Security Council is not an end in itself. Africa must focus on strengthening its own governance and institutions. Once that is achieved, other successes will follow.

Fidel Amakye Owusu is an International Relations and Security Analyst. He is an Associate at the Conflict Research Consortium for Africa and has previously hosted an International Affairs program with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). He is passionate about Diplomacy and realizing Africa’s global potential and how the continent should be viewed as part of the global collective.