The West African nation, Liberia, has secured a historic return to the United Nations Security Council after 64 years since its first ever election in 1961. Pres. Boakai in a speech calls this historic milestone, “a new chapter in Liberia’s global engagement.”
Winning 181 votes in an uncontested election during the UN General Assembly, Liberia reclaims a seat at the global decision-making table for the first time in over six decades.
This marks the West African nation’s first return to the Security Council since 1961, a powerful symbol of its transformation from a war-torn country into a regional advocate for peace, stability, and diplomacy.
A Historic Return
Liberia’s previous term on the Security Council, in 1961, came at a pivotal time when few African countries were independent.
Then, Liberia was a strong voice for decolonization and African self-determination during the early Cold War.
Today, Liberia returns in a vastly different context, one marked by increasing calls for inclusive global governance and greater African representation in international institutions.
The country’s unopposed candidacy and overwhelming support underscore a renewed respect for its diplomatic contributions and regional leadership.
From Civil War to a Peace-Builder
Liberia’s modern history is deeply shaped by a brutal civil war that lasted from 1989 to 2003, claiming more than 250,000 lives and displacing millions. During that time, the UN Security Council was instrumental in authorizing sanctions and peacekeeping interventions. The UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), established in 2003, played a central role in disarmament, peacekeeping, and the rebuilding of democratic institutions.
Now, two decades later, Liberia returns to the very body that once intervened to restore its peace. It does so as a stable democracy and a contributor to peacekeeping missions across Africa.
“This is not just Liberia’s seat, it’s a seat for post-conflict nations striving for peace and rebuilding,” said Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, following the vote.
A Stronger African Voice
Liberia joins the Security Council alongside Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Latvia, five nations elected by secret ballot on June 3, 2025, for terms beginning January 2026.
These new members will serve through the end of 2027, joining Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia, who were elected in 2024.
The Security Council is composed of 15 members: five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
Seats are allocated by regional group, and candidates must secure a two-thirds majority in the 193-member General Assembly.
With three African nations now represented among the non-permanent members, Liberia’s election further amplifies the continent’s voice in global affairs.
It is expected to advocate strongly for reform of the Security Council to include permanent African representation.
“Liberia’s presence will bring valuable insights into peace-building, transitional justice, and the challenges of post-conflict governance,” said a diplomat from the African Union. “This is a voice from experience.”
Priorities and Outlook
During its term, Liberia is expected to focus on key issues that align with its national priorities and lived experiences, including: Peace-building and conflict prevention, Youth empowerment, Climate resilience, Regional security, especially in West Africa’s increasingly fragile Sahel corridor.
Liberia’s election is not only a validation of its recovery but also recognition of its potential to help shape international peace and security.
“Liberia’s election is a validation of our commitment to global peace and a reaffirmation of our resolve to continue advocating for Africa and global development,” said President Joseph Boakai in a national address.
Foreign Minister Nyanti, visibly emotional after the announcement, called the moment “a new beginning” and pledged her ministry’s full support in advancing Liberia’s diplomatic engagement and global partnerships.
Looking Ahead
Liberia’s reentry to the UN Security Council is a milestone in its national journey, from a country once dependent on international peacekeeping to one contributing meaningfully to global peace-building efforts.
It is a testament to resilience, unity, and the enduring hope that nations can rise from conflict and become champions of peace.
As Liberia prepares to take its seat in 2026, it brings not just its flag to the Security Council chamber, but also the wisdom born from its own hard-won peace.
