H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of Liberia addresses the UN General Assembly; New York, Wednesday, September 25, 2024
H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of Liberia; UN headquarters, New York, September 27, 2024

Statement by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai at the launch of Liberia's 2026 bid for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat

Excellencies;
Distinguished Representatives;
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is with great joy and a profound sense of responsibility that I am seeking your support for Liberia's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council in 2026.

Liberia takes pride in being one of the founding members of the United Nations. Even further, Liberia was a founding member of the precursor to the United Nations, which was the League of Nations. It is also noteworthy that Liberia produced the first African female President of the UN General Assembly and the second woman from any nation to head the General Assembly.

Having played a significant role in the establishment of the United Nations in 1945, Liberia embodies the principles and aspirations of the United Nations itself. Our commitment to peace, security, and human dignity is enshrined in our Constitution and reflected in our actions on the global stage.

More so, Liberia has played a key role in the formation of several continental and subcontinental organizations, including the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which is now the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the Mano River Union (MRU).

Through these bodies, we have advocated for collaboration, conflict resolution, and development across Africa.

Liberia's historical legacy extends beyond its borders; we have championed the cause of independence for numerous African nations during the mid-to-late 20th century.

Our leaders, both past and present, have been steadfast advocates for self-determination, fostering a spirit of unity and resilience across the continent. This commitment to liberation and solidarity with our African brethren has not only shaped our national identity but has also positioned Liberia as a beacon of hope and a model for democratic governance in Africa.

The scars of Liberia's turbulent past, marked by civil conflict, serve as a testament to our journey toward peace and reconciliation. The resilience demonstrated by our people is evidence of hope and transformation. We have emerged from a prolonged period of instability with renewed vigor, dedicating ourselves to rebuilding our institutions and fostering a culture of peace.

Our experience with conflict adequately equips us with unique insights into peacebuilding and conflict resolution complexities.

We understand the vital importance of dialogue, empathy, and cooperation, both within and among nations. Liberia's commitment to peace is further underscored by our active participation in international peacekeeping missions, as we strive to contribute to global stability and security.

As a member of the Security Council, Liberia would bring a perspective enriched and shaped by our historical experiences and our unwavering commitment to the values enshrined in the UN Charter.

We espouse multilateralism and advocate for the inclusion of diverse voices in decision-making processes, recognizing that effective solutions to contemporary challenges require collaboration and understanding among nations.

Liberia is particularly investing in climate change, regional security, and sustainable developmentā€”areas that resonate deeply with our national priorities and the broader global agenda.

We believe our contributions to these discussions will enhance the Council's cohesion, effectiveness and relevance in addressing pressing global challenges.

Considering Liberia's significant contributions to global governance, our history of supporting African independence, and our valuable experience in peacebuilding, we respectfully request the members of the United Nations to endorse Liberia's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council for the 2026-2027 term.

Let us collectively reaffirm our dedication to the principles of the United Nations and our fervent desire to collaborate to pave the way for a more peaceful, fair, and just world. Liberia is prepared to make meaningful contributions to this noble cause, ensuring that the voices of the marginalized are heard and that peace is maintained for future generations.

I should therefore amplify our passionate pleas to you, our sister nations, to take our longstanding commitment, our staying power, and our active involvement in global causes, as reasons that make us worthy to be accorded this opportunity to service us all.

We assure that your vote in support of this cause of ours will be one that you will ever cherish.

Thank you.