By Amos Harris
Liberia has launched an ambitious campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026-2027 term, marking a potential return to the global decision-making body for the first time in 65 years.
During a regular press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Liberia’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Lewis Browne, underscored the significance of this move. He highlighted that Liberia, as a founding member of the UN, last held a seat on the Security Council in 1961, sharing a two-year term with Ireland.
Liberia’s candidacy has received a major boost with the unanimous endorsement of the African Union (AU), positioning the nation as the continent’s representative in the race for a seat. This endorsement underscores Liberia’s longstanding commitment to global peace, security, and international cooperation.
During its previous tenure on the Security Council, Liberia played a pivotal role in African unity, UN peacekeeping efforts, international mediation, and the decolonization process. These contributions helped shape its reputation as a leader in global diplomacy—a legacy it seeks to continue if elected.
Ambassador Browne emphasized that beyond international recognition, Liberia’s return to the Security Council could yield significant economic benefits. He pointed to historical precedents, noting that Liberia’s diplomatic engagement in the 1960s contributed to national development and economic expansion.
A successful election could once again open doors for foreign investment, infrastructure development, and stronger international partnerships. Other African nations, such as Sierra Leone and Ghana, leveraged their UNSC memberships to secure long-term economic gains, and Liberia hopes to follow suit.
The election for the UNSC non-permanent seat will take place in June at the UN Headquarters in New York. To secure the seat, Liberia must obtain at least 127 votes from the 193 UN member states. If successful, this would mark the first time Liberia serves a full two-year term, further solidifying its global influence and reinforcing its post-war recovery, democratic progress, and peace-building expertise.
To galvanize national support, President [Name] will officially launch Liberia’s campaign on Monday, February 10, at 11 AM at the historic Centennial Pavilion in Monrovia. The event will bring together government officials, diplomats, civil society leaders, students, and citizens from all walks of life in a show of unity behind the national effort.
Ambassador Browne emphasized that Liberia’s bid transcends political divisions, urging all Liberians to rally behind this national cause. “The nameplate at the Security Council will not represent a political party, tribe, or county; it will represent the Republic of Liberia,” he stated.
After years of conflict, economic hardship, and political challenges, Liberia has emerged as a beacon of democracy and peace. This bid, according to Ambassador Browne, is not just about diplomatic prestige but a testament to the country’s resilience and readiness to shape global peace and security.
As the campaign gains momentum, Liberians at home and abroad are being encouraged to support the initiative. A victory in June would not only be a historic achievement but also a crucial step toward securing a brighter and more prosperous future for the nation.
