President Bio Calls for Fair Global Representation at FOCAC Summit, Demands UNSC Reform

At the 2024 Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone delivered a forceful address at the High-Level Event on Global Peace and Security. His remarks focused on the urgent need for fair representation in global decision-making processes and addressing global injustice.

President Bio highlighted Africa’s significant impact from global conflicts and reiterated the continent’s demand for equitable representation in key international institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). As the Chairman of the African Union’s Committee of Ten on UNSC Reform, he advocated for Africa to secure two permanent seats on the Security Council.

In his speech, President Bio criticized the current global system, which he argued perpetuates inequities and undermines global peace and security. “The philosophy of perpetuating injustice and unfair treatment to others with the desire to develop self has inadvertently distorted and continues to undermine global peace and security,” he said.

He emphasized that correcting these imbalances is essential for building a future of lasting peace and universal security. The President urged global leaders to prioritize justice and fairness in their agendas, stressing that only through unity can peace and development be achieved. “We must ensure unity in diversity, where the rights of the weak and the minority are protected. Divisions and unhealthy competition will only lead to humanity’s destruction,” President Bio warned.