The Democratic Republic of Congo has commenced its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2026-2027, aiming to leverage its historical experience in conflict resolution and peacekeeping. The elections are scheduled for June 2025, and the DRC seeks to influence discussions on peacebuilding reforms.
On Wednesday, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) initiated its campaign to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2026-2027 during an official ceremony held in Kinshasa. The UN Security Council is a vital body tasked with upholding international peace and security, with the authority to make legally binding decisions, endorse military interventions, and impose sanctions. Comprising five permanent members—namely China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms, the Council plays a crucial role in global governance.
During the ceremony, Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner highlighted the DRC’s historical contributions to the Council, noting its prior elections as a non-permanent member in 1982-1983 and 1991-1992, during which the DRC condemned Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait amidst the Gulf War. She emphasized the DRC’s extensive experience in peacekeeping, being home to one of the world’s largest UN peacekeeping missions, which comprises 15,000 UN troops.
The elections for the non-permanent member seats are scheduled for June 2025. If elected, the DRC aims to leverage its position to influence discussions surrounding peacekeeping reforms and the UN’s collective security framework. The country is committed to applying its experiences in conflict resolution and prevention strategies, especially in light of the persistent conflicts affecting its resource-rich eastern region.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is recognized as one of the most authoritative entities in the global governance landscape, primarily tasked with maintaining international peace and security. The Council is divided into five permanent members that have veto power and ten elected non-permanent members who serve for two years without veto authority. The DRC has a history of participation in the Council but seeks renewed representation to advocate for its insights into conflict resolution, particularly given its longstanding internal challenges.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s campaign for a UN Security Council seat underscores its commitment to contribute to global peace and security discussions. By harnessing its historical context and extensive peacekeeping experience, the DRC is poised to play a relevant role in international governance if elected in 2025. The DRC’s efforts demonstrate its proactive approach to addressing regional conflicts and its dedication to strengthening collaborative security frameworks worldwide.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
