Nobel Peace Prize laureate Leymah Gbowee is advocating for Liberia’s pursuit of a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
In a recent appearance on the state broadcaster, ELBC, Gbowee urged President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to host a unifying dinner with key political figures, including former Presidents George Weah and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
“This is a crucial opportunity for President Boakai to unite influential leaders and promote Liberia’s UNSC bid in 2025,” Gbowee stated, expressing optimism about the country’s prospects.
She emphasized that every leader has influence that could help secure this position.
Gbowee criticized the current Unity Party-led government for what she termed “unpatriotic” political behavior among Liberian leaders.
She lamented a troubling trend where newly elected parties focus on undermining their predecessors rather than addressing pressing societal issues.
“When a new group comes to power, the immediate focus is on humiliating the previous leaders, while vital issues affecting everyday citizens are ignored,” she remarked.
Reflecting on the transition from the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) to the Unity Party, Gbowee noted that little progress has been made since the new government took office.
She stressed the need for unity among Liberia’s diverse political factions:
“Where is the spirit of convergence? Regardless of our political affiliations, we must prioritize our identity as Liberians,” she noted.
Gbowee urged the government to foster collaboration among national leaders, emphasizing the importance of respect and inclusivity in politics.
On September 27, President Boakai, while attending the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, called on the international community to support Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2026-2027 term.
He highlighted Liberia’s historical legacy as a founding member of the UN and its contributions to peace, security, and human dignity.
“Liberia’s history is closely intertwined with the ideals of the United Nations. Our commitment to fostering peace and resolving conflicts is well documented,” President Boakai stated.
The Liberian leader underscored the country’s active participation in significant continental and regional organizations, such as the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which promote cooperation and development across Africa.
Acknowledging Liberia’s turbulent past, marked by civil conflict, Boakai stressed the nation’s resilience and unique insights into peacebuilding.
“Liberia’s experience in overcoming conflict equips us to contribute meaningfully to the Security Council’s work,” he affirmed.
Boakai reiterated Liberia’s commitment to multilateralism and the need for diverse voices in global decision-making.
“As a member of the Security Council, Liberia will bring a perspective shaped by our history and our commitment to the values enshrined in the UN Charter,” he concluded.
Liberia last held a seat on the UN Non-Permanent Security Council in 1961, replaced by Morocco in 1963.
