UNGA81: Why has Africa’s Security Council reform push remained unresolved?

Africa wants permanent seats and veto power, but agreement remains elusive.

x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info The 81st UN General Assembly considers long-standing calls to reform the UN Security Council, September 22, 2026 [Kylie Cooper/Reuters] By Mubarak Aliyu Published On 26 Sep 2026 26 Sep 2026 Abuja, Nigeria – Africa’s long-running campaign for permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council is back in focus at the 81st UN General Assembly, with leaders renewing calls to reform a body whose five permanent members have remained unchanged since 1945.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres used his final address to the General Assembly on Tuesday to renew his call for Security Council reform, saying it must become more representative and better reflect today’s geopolitical realities.