UN Security Council Must Rectify African Injustice, Attaf Says
Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, affirmed in Tripoli that reform of the United Nations Security Council is no longer merely a procedural matter but a fundamental issue of justice, legitimacy, and credibility for the multilateral international system. Speaking at the 14th Ministerial Meeting of the African Union's Committee of Ten on Security Council Reform, Minister Attaf underscored the imperative to rectify the historical injustice imposed on Africa by ensuring its full and equitable representation in the Council. He expressed Algeria's conviction that Africa's current limited representation in non-permanent seats and its complete absence from permanent membership is politically and morally unacceptable.
Minister Attaf highlighted that the international system has undergone profound transformations, with shifts in power balances and political landscapes, and the emergence of new regional blocs and an expanded UN membership. However, the Security Council's structure has not adequately reflected these changes. He recalled that in 1945, most African nations were under colonial rule, lacking a voice in the establishment of the international system. Consequently, Africa now demands, with full right and legitimacy, the correction of this historical injustice, asserting that history cannot be a justification for freezing the present. The continent seeks comprehensive participation in decision-making, not merely bearing the consequences, and equal treatment with other global blocs.
Algeria actively supports the African Union's adoption of the African Model for Security Council reform and its presentation by the Committee of Ten during intergovernmental negotiations. Minister Attaf stressed that while a unified model is crucial, it does not automatically imply a transition to text-based negotiations, as essential issues within the five clusters still require balanced and comprehensive resolution. He emphasized that Africa's openness to negotiation does not signify abandoning its unified stance or compromising its legitimacy. The Minister called for intensive political action to broaden support for Africa's demand, engage partners, and clarify that achieving justice for Africa enhances the Security Council's overall legitimacy and credibility without diminishing any other party's status. He affirmed that African unity is the bedrock of its strength, advocating for a united approach in dialogue and negotiations, strictly adhering to agreed principles to ensure Africa secures its rightful place as an active participant at the core of international decision-making, with increased seats, including permanent ones and veto power, for the benefit of the entire international system.
