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During a historic ceremony on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, His Excellency Dr. Michael Imran Kanu, marked the commencement of the country’s two-year tenure on the United Nations Security Council. Joined by four other newly elected members, Ambassador Kanu installed Sierra Leone’s national flag outside the Council’s chamber, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to maintaining international peace and security.
This momentous occasion, taking place in the UN Security Council media stakeout area, holds great significance for Sierra Leone, representing the second time in its 62 years of UN membership that it undertakes the crucial responsibility within the Council. Ambassador Kanu underscored the role of President Julius Maada Bio’s New Direction foreign policy, emphasizing Sierra Leone’s dedication to strengthening multilateralism, fostering international cooperation, and contributing to global peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development.
Sierra Leone’s priorities on the Security Council will be grounded in partnership and a representative approach to foster sustained global peace and security. Ambassador Kanu highlighted the country’s commitment to collaboration within the A3 plus, the E10, and with the P5, aiming to guide the Council towards meaningful and timely actions in maintaining international peace and security. Emphasizing the significance of regional arrangements and ownership, Sierra Leone seeks to play a pivotal role in shaping the Council’s decisions.
The nation achieved a remarkable milestone on June 6, 2023, when it was elected to the non-permanent category of the UN Security Council for the 2024-2025 term. After 53 years, Sierra Leone is returning to this role, securing 188 out of 193 votes from UN Member States. Having joined the United Nations as its 100th Member State in 1961, Sierra Leone previously served on the Council during the 1970-1971 term.
Sierra Leone’s approach on the Security Council revolves around promoting partnership, multilateralism, and a representative strategy to ensure sustained global peace and security. The nation aims to contribute significantly to strengthening the multilateral framework while working collaboratively within various groups to influence meaningful Council actions. Sierra Leone has also expressed its support for reinforcing the efforts of the Peace Building Commission (PBC) in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
During its tenure on the Council, Sierra Leone will draw on its experience and lessons learned from its post-conflict peacebuilding journey. Additionally, the nation stands as a successful model for UN peacekeeping operations, intending to share valuable insights and contribute actively to discussions on maintaining international peace.
Sierra Leone’s return to the UN Security Council signals not only a reaffirmation of its commitment to global peace but also an opportunity for the nation to shape and influence critical decisions that impact the international community. As the country takes on this significant role, the world watches with anticipation to witness the contributions and impact Sierra Leone will make during its two-year term on the Council.
