-GoL launches campaign for the country’s bid for a Seat on the UNSC
September 27, 2024, New York, USA: In a significant diplomatic endeavor, the Republic of Liberia has launched its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-2027 term. The announcement was made by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., during a speech at the UN Headquarters in New York, where he called upon the international community to support Liberia’s candidacy.
President Boakai highlighted Liberia’s historical contributions as a founding member of the United Nations and its predecessor, the League of Nations. He emphasized the nation’s enduring commitment to the principles of peace, security, and human dignity, which are embedded in its Constitution and reflected in its active global role.
“Liberia’s history is closely intertwined with the ideals of the United Nations. Our commitment to fostering peace, resolving conflicts, and advocating for self-determination across Africa is well documented,” President Boakai stated. He cited Liberia’s legacy as a beacon of hope and resilience, a country that has survived adversity and emerged stronger, ready to contribute to the global community.
Supporting the President’s call, Rep. Taa Wongbe, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Sen. Darius Dillion, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, praised the government’s efforts and declared their support for Liberia’s bid. They underscored the country’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to the Security Council’s work, drawing from its rich history and recent experiences in peacebuilding.
Sen. Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, President Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate, also delivered a powerful speech, reinforcing Liberia’s campaign theme: “Towards a Just and Peaceful World.” She highlighted Liberia’s unique position to offer valuable insights to the Security Council, given its journey from civil conflict to peace and stability.
“Our campaign is driven by a firm commitment to a vision embodied in our slogan: ‘Towards a Just and Peaceful World.’ This vision aligns with the principles of the United Nations Charter and speaks directly to the core mandate of the Security Council to maintain international peace and security,” Sen. Karnga Lawrence declared.
She elaborated on Liberia’s transformation from the devastation of civil war to the restoration of democracy and stability, emphasizing the nation’s profound understanding of peace, justice, and inclusive governance. Sen. Karnga Lawrence asserted that Liberia’s experiences make it uniquely equipped to address global peace and security challenges.
“Liberia is committed to approaching this task with the utmost respect, responsibility, and resolve, fully prepared to engage constructively as a proactive member of the Security Council,” she said.
Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf also lent her voice to the campaign, asserting that Liberia has all the criteria necessary to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. She recounted Liberia’s contributions to the establishment of the United Nations and the Organization of African Unity, highlighting the nation’s legacy and influence in international diplomacy.
“Liberia has proven to be a champion of women empowerment, all of which can put the UN in a better position to deal with the mounting challenges of our world,” she stated. Madam Sirleaf reflected on the nation’s brutal civil war and the pivotal role women played in the peace processes, underscoring how these experiences have fortified Liberia’s commitment to advocating for justice and peace.
President Boakai reaffirmed Liberia’s alignment with the broader international agenda, particularly in addressing climate change, regional security, and sustainable development. He reiterated Liberia’s dedication to multilateralism and the importance of inclusive global decision-making processes.
“As a member of the Security Council, Liberia will bring a perspective shaped by our history along with our unwavering commitment to the values enshrined in the UN Charter,” President Boakai affirmed. He outlined Liberia’s vision for a more just, equitable, and peaceful world, where smaller nations have a voice and conflicts are resolved through dialogue and cooperation.
Sen. Karnga Lawrence concluded her address by soliciting the support of UN member states, emphasizing the shared vision of a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue, justice prevails over injustice, and peace encompasses conditions that allow all people to thrive.
“Together, let us work towards a Security Council that is truly representative of all nations, responsive to the needs of all people, and resolute in its commitment to peace and security. Let us move forward ‘Towards a Just and Peaceful World,’” she urged.
Former President Sirleaf’s endorsement added significant weight to the campaign, as she is widely respected for her leadership and contributions to peace and democracy in Liberia. Her historical perspective and emphasis on women’s empowerment resonate deeply with the international community, adding a compelling dimension to Liberia’s candidacy.
The event, attended by numerous dignitaries and representatives from various countries, underscored the broad support Liberia is garnering for its bid. The speeches highlighted the nation’s resilience, its commitment to democratic principles, and its readiness to play a constructive role on the Security Council.
Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council underscores its commitment to contributing to global peace and governance and reflects its belief in the power of multilateralism. The campaign launch has been met with a positive reception from various international stakeholders, who recognize the unique perspectives and experiences Liberia can bring to the Council.
A Legacy of Peace and Resilience
Liberia’s journey from conflict to peace has been a testament to the country’s resilience and determination. The nation’s history of overcoming adversity has equipped it with invaluable insights into the processes of peacebuilding and conflict resolution. This rich legacy positions Liberia as a strong candidate capable of addressing the complex challenges faced by the Security Council.
Sen. Karnga Lawrence emphasized this point, noting, “Our journey from the devastation of civil war to the restoration of democracy and stability has endowed us with a profound understanding of the necessity of peace, the value of justice, and the importance of inclusive governance. We have emerged as a testament to the power of reconciliation and the strength of the human spirit.”
Championing Women’s Empowerment
A significant aspect of Liberia’s narrative is its commitment to women’s empowerment, a theme strongly endorsed by former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Highlighting the remarkable roles women played during and after the civil war, Sirleaf pointed out that Liberia’s emphasis on gender equality and women’s leadership can serve as a model for the international community.
“Liberia has proven to be a champion of women empowerment, all of which can put the UN in a better position to deal with the mounting challenges of our world,” Sirleaf stated. This focus on gender equality aligns with global efforts to promote women’s participation in peace and security initiatives, making Liberia’s candidacy even more relevant in today’s context.
Addressing Global Challenges
President Boakai outlined Liberia’s commitment to tackling critical global issues such as climate change, regional security, and sustainable development. He emphasized that Liberia’s priorities are in harmony with the broader international agenda, and the nation is ready to collaborate with other member states to address these pressing challenges.
“Liberia is committed to approaching this task with the utmost respect, responsibility, and resolve, fully prepared to engage constructively as a proactive member of the Security Council,” President Boakai reiterated. He stressed the importance of multilateralism and the need for diverse voices in global decision-making processes.
A Call for Support
The speeches at the UN Headquarters resonated with a call for international solidarity and support for Liberia’s bid. Sen. Karnga Lawrence encapsulated this sentiment, urging member states to endorse Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council.
“Together, let us work towards a Security Council that is truly representative of all nations, responsive to the needs of all people, and resolute in its commitment to peace and security. Let us move forward ‘Towards a Just and Peaceful World,’” she concluded.
The appeal for support was not just for Liberia but for a shared vision of a world where justice, peace, and security are paramount. The campaign reflects Liberia’s belief in the principles of the United Nations and its readiness to contribute to a more equitable and peaceful international order.
International Reactions
The international community has responded positively to Liberia’s campaign. Representatives from various countries acknowledged Liberia’s unique contributions to peace and security and expressed their willingness to consider its candidacy. The event also provided a platform for diplomatic engagements, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual support among UN member states.
Looking Ahead
As Liberia moves forward with its campaign, the nation remains dedicated to its vision of a just and peaceful world. The support from key figures such as President Boakai, Sen. Karnga Lawrence, and former President Sirleaf underscores the unified front Liberia presents in its quest for a seat on the Security Council. The nation’s rich history, commitment to peace, and advocacy for women’s empowerment position it as a strong contender in the upcoming elections.
Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council is a testament to its resilience, its commitment to global peace and security, and its belief in the power of multilateralism. As the campaign progresses, Liberia hopes to garner the support needed to bring its unique perspectives and experiences to the forefront of international diplomacy, contributing to a more just and peaceful world.
