Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, called for urgent reforms to the UN Security Council during his address at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa. He emphasized the need for permanent African representation.
The event occurred on February 14, 2026. Guterres highlighted the council’s outdated structure from 1945, which excluded Africa despite its population exceeding one billion people.
The Call for Inclusion
Guterres stated that Africa’s absence from permanent seats undermined the council’s credibility. He said, António Guterres Urges Permanent African Seat at United Nations Security Council
Furthermore, he argued that the body could not ignore a continent representing 28 percent of UN membership.
Historical Injustice Addressed
In his speech, Guterres described the exclusion as a deep historical injustice. He noted, “We cannot accept that the world’s preeminent peace and security body lacks a permanent voice for a continent of well over a billion people… nor can we accept that Africa’s views are undervalued on questions of peace and security, both on the continent.”
Moreover he pointed to the 2024 Pact for the Future, which supported permanent African seats to enhance global peace efforts.
Broader Reforms Pushed
Guterres met with Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, African Union Commission Chairperson, to discuss closer cooperation on peace and security. They reiterated the urgency of UN Security Council reform.
In addition, Guterres advocated for changes in international financial institutions to ensure equitable African representation. The push aligned with the Common African Position, which demanded fair global governance.
Implications for Global Order
Leaders at the summit echoed Guterres’ demands. Youssouf praised the UN chief’s commitment to multilateralism. Consequently, the discussions focused on Africa’s role in addressing conflicts, climate change, and migration. Guterres stressed that reforms would strengthen international fairness and effectiveness.
