Liberia Elected to UNSC: Boakai Says Is New Chapter

Liberia has been elected to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026–2027 term, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s international reemergence.

In a nationally televised address, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, hailed the achievement as “a new chapter in the country’s global engagement,” and a tribute to the resilience and global vision of the Liberian people.

“This is a moment of honor and humility for our 178-year-old republic,” Pres. Boakai said.

Adding: “Our election symbolizes African perseverance and celebrates generations of Liberians, who held firm to freedom, self-governance, and global solidarity.”

Boakai expressed deep gratitude to the UN Member States for their confidence in Liberia. He paid homage to the country’s historic legacy—from being Africa’s first independent republic to a founding member of the UN.

The President also recognized the contributions of national icons, including Ambassador Angie Brooks-Randolph and President William R. Tolbert, Jr., whose leadership helped define the country’s international identity.

Highlighting the country’s journey from civil conflict to democratic stability, Pres. Boakai emphasized that the UNSC election validates the country’s commitment to peace, reconciliation, and international cooperation.

“Unlike our partial term in 1961, today’s election is a testament to our nation’s journey toward peace and reconciliation,” he said.

“It affirms Liberia as a credible and relevant voice on the world stage,” Boakai said.

He pledged that Liberia will be a principled and dependable voice on the Council, advocating for the interests of Africa, the Global South, and marginalized communities around the world. Key priorities for the country’s tenure will include: Conflict prevention and peacebuilding; Protection of civilians, especially women and children; Peacekeeping reform; Addressing climate-related insecurity; Inclusive diplomacy rooted in the country’s values of freedom and humility.

“Liberia will draw on its hard-earned lessons to contribute meaningfully to global peace efforts. We are not just participating, we are ready to lead and to serve,” the President affirmed.

He meanwhile, extended his appreciation to the country’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, the nation’s Permanent Mission to the UN, and campaign teams in New York, Monrovia, and Addis Ababa for their strategic coordination and diplomacy throughout the election process.

In a show of inclusivity and national unity, Pres. Boakai announced plans to hold consultations with youth and women across the country to shape the nation’s priorities on the Council. “Liberia’s voice at the Council will reflect the hopes, resilience, and dreams of our people,” he declared.

This marks the first time in more than six decades that the country will serve on the Security Council. The election is seen as a major foreign policy win for Pres. Boakai and the administration and a symbol of the country’s growing stature in global affairs.

Liberia will serve a two-year term on the 15-member UNSC beginning January 1, 2026, because, Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly and play a vital role in maintaining international peace and security.

This aligns with the country’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.