In January 2026, Africa strengthened its diplomatic presence on the global stage as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Liberia took their seats as non‑permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. Their two‑year terms begin at a time of heightened global instability, marked by armed conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, and geopolitical tensions.
As the UN’s primary body responsible for international peace and security, the Security Council now includes two African voices directly involved in decisions on critical issues such as the war in Sudan, insecurity in the Sahel, and ongoing violence in eastern Congo.
The DRC’s presence is particularly significant. As both a contributor to and a focus of UN peacekeeping operations, the country brings first‑hand experience of complex security challenges. Its seat provides an opportunity to advocate for African‑led solutions and stronger international support for conflict‑affected regions.
Liberia, meanwhile, draws on its post‑conflict recovery experience and long engagement with the UN system. The country has pledged to prioritize multilateral cooperation, conflict prevention, and the protection of civilians, reinforcing West Africa’s diplomatic role in global governance.
At a time when multilateral institutions face growing pressure and fragmentation, Africa’s reinforced presence on the Security Council is widely seen as a chance to rebalance global debates and reaffirm the importance of international law and collective security.
