Egypt’s el-Sissi Urges UN Security Council Reforms for Africa’s Larger Role. Cairo, Egypt — Egypt’s President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has called for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations Security Council to ensure a more significant African presence in global decision-making. Speaking at the Russia-Africa partnership conference in Cairo, el-Sissi emphasized the continent’s growing importance and the need for its voice to be heard more prominently on the international stage. “.
The voice of Africa should be present and influential in making global decisions given the continent’s human, economic, political, and demographic weight, “el-Sissi stated, as quoted by his foreign minister during the plenary session.
The call for reform comes as the African Union has been advocating for at least two permanent seats with veto powers and five non — permanent seats for Africa in the Security Council.
The AU argues that such reforms would contribute to peace and stability on the continent, which has been addressing conflicts for decades.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed el — Sissi’s sentiments, stating that Russia remains committed to supporting African states in strengthening their national sovereignty. Lavrov also mentioned the launch of talks aimed at developing an action plan for cooperation between Russia and Africa for the years 2026-2029, which will be presented at the Russia-Africa summit scheduled for next year.
The Security Council, established in 1945, has remained largely unchanged, with 10 non-permanent members from all regions of the world and five permanent members, including the United States, Russia, China, Britain, and France, who hold veto power.
El — Sissi’s plea for reform reflects the ongoing efforts by African leaders to secure a more equitable representation in international institutions.
The lack of consensus among African countries on a mechanism to select potential permanent representatives has, however, hindered progress in this regard. Further details are expected as the African Union continues to coordinate its efforts in various multilateral forums to promote the reform of the UN Security Council.
