Omar Hilale, Morocco’s permanent ambassador to the United Nations, has called for crucial reforms to the UN Security Council to address Africa’s underrepresentation.
Speaking at the Atlantic Dialogues, Hilale argued that the continent deserves two permanent seats and five non-permanent seats, emphasizing the historical injustices Africa has faced.
“It is time for Africa to be properly represented,” Hilale declared, urging the UN to leverage African leadership by including stable, economically strong countries with rich histories, including Morocco.
He believes such representation will bolster the Security Council’s effectiveness in tackling global challenges.
Hilale expressed concerns about the current “multipolar” world order, contrasting it with the past’s bipolar system where “the two great powers managed to get along.”
He warned that the lack of agreement among multiple power centers hinders solutions to major problems.
These remarks come amidst several international crises, with the Palestinian situation in Gaza taking center stage. Israeli aggression against Palestinians, coupled with international paralysis and a lack of ceasefire consensus, paints a bleak picture.
Hilale pointed to influential UN Security Council members, particularly the US, using vetoes to block ceasefire efforts.
Beyond the Palestinian conflict, Hilale highlighted other global concerns like separatism, violent extremism, and anti-immigrant sentiment. He noted the existence of over 15 separatist groups linked to extremism, terrorism, and transnational crime, underscoring the urgency of a more effective UN and Security Council.
“The international community is paralyzed,” Hilale stated.
“It’s imperative to strengthen the UN and the Security Council so they can fulfill their role as guardians of peace and security in the world.”
Hilale’s call for African representation echoes a long-standing demand for a more equitable and reflective UN system. Whether his proposal, or another, gains traction remains to be seen, but the need for change is undeniable.
The current global landscape necessitates a Security Council that can effectively address a multitude of interconnected crises, and ensuring Africa’s voice is heard will be a crucial step toward achieving that goal.
