By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
African Union Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has emphasized the need to rectify Africa’s exclusion from permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), calling it a “historical injustice” that must be corrected. In an interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman, Mahamat expressed frustration over the prolonged debates on UN reform, stating that current global challenges demand swift, collective action.
He highlighted the urgency of addressing major global issues, including climate change, economic crises, peace and stability, and the fight against terrorism and extremism. “Today’s climate problems, as well as today’s economic and financial crisis, the issues of peace, stability, and the fight against terrorism and extremism are the priorities that need to be addressed together,” Mahamat stressed.
According to Mahamat, the existing structure of the UNSC, which was established after World War II, no longer serves its purpose. “The desire to maintain what was developed right after World War II will not work, which is proved by the fact that the Security Council itself has come to an impasse on a number of issues,” he said. He also urged Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, to play its role in supporting necessary reforms.
With the “Summit of the Future” approaching on September 22-23, Mahamat expressed hope that meaningful reforms would be made to create a shared future for all of humanity. “Achieving this goal requires reforms, deep reforms,” he remarked, underscoring that Africa’s role in international decision-making can no longer be marginalized.
“Restricting Africa to a secondary role in international administration is unacceptable and no longer feasible,” Mahamat stated. He concluded by affirming that global stability and security are at risk, and those committed to peace and justice must advocate for Africa’s inclusion.
The African Union (AU), comprising 55 member states, is Africa’s largest and most influential organization. It was established in 2002, replacing the Organization of African Unity, and is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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