Democratic Republic of Congo Seeks Non-Permanent UN Security Council Seat
The Democratic Republic of Congo has launched a campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2026-2027. The DRC has previously served in this capacity and aims to utilize its experience from hosting a significant UN peacekeeping mission. Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner expressed the country’s intent to influence peacekeeping debates and strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms.
On Wednesday, the Democratic Republic of Congo officially commenced its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2026-2027 in a ceremony held in Kinshasa. The Security Council, regarded as the preeminent body of the UN tasked with preserving global peace and security, comprises five permanent members and ten non-permanent members. Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner acknowledged the country’s historical contributions to international security, having previously served as a non-permanent member during two terms in the early 1980s and early 1990s.
Highlighting the DRC’s extensive experience in conflict resolution, including hosting a large UN peacekeeping mission, the Foreign Minister expressed aspirations to bring essential insights to peacekeeping debates and UN reform if elected. The DRC aims to leverage its unique position to enhance mechanisms for conflict resolution and to act as a stabilizing force in a region plagued by prolonged violence and unrest.
The United Nations Security Council is a pivotal component of the UN system, responsible for making crucial decisions regarding international peace and security. Its composition features five permanent members that hold veto power and ten non-permanent members who are selected by the General Assembly for two-year terms. The Democratic Republic of Congo has prior experience on the Council, representing a key voice in international security dialogues, particularly following significant historical events such as the Gulf War. This campaign reflects the DRC’s ambition to engage actively in global security discussions amid ongoing challenges within the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s initiative to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council underscores its commitment to contributing to international peace and security. By leveraging its historical experiences and strategic position, the DRC seeks to play a prominent role in influencing UN peacekeeping practices and reinforcing conflict resolution strategies. With elections for the non-permanent seats approaching in June 2025, the outcomes could significantly shape both the DRC’s future influence and the broader landscape of global security.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
