In a momentous diplomatic achievement, Liberia has been elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-2027 term.
This marks the country’s return to the council for the first time in 64 years following its previous term in 1961.
Liberia secured a landslide victory with 181 votes out of the required 125, two-thirds of the total votes cast in Tuesday’s election at the UN General Assembly in New York, signaling strong international confidence in the West African Nation’s renewed global role.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, in a national address following the announcement, described the election as a “new chapter in our nation’s history” and a “moment of honor and humility for Africa’s oldest republic.
“Our election is not just a national achievement,” said President Boakai.” “It symbolizes African perseverance and is a tribute to generations of Liberians who have held firm to freedom, self-governance, and global solidarity.”
President Boakai paid homage to iconic Liberians and African figures, including Ambassador Angie Brooks-Randolph, Africa’s first female President of the UN General Assembly, and President William R. Tolbert Jr., whose global advocacy for African liberation remains celebrated. He noted that Liberia’s return to the council comes after decades of post-conflict recovery and democratic progress, including peaceful elections and historic transitions of power.
The President also acknowledged the sacrifices of the 202 United Nations peacekeepers who lost their lives during Liberia’s civil crisis and extended appreciation to ECOWAS, the African Union, and the wider international community for their support in Liberia’s peacebuilding process.
“From the ruins of war, Liberia has risen as a democracy. Today’s election affirms that Liberia is again a credible and relevant voice on the world stage,” he said.
As a non-permanent member, Liberia is expected to play an active role in shaping decisions on international peace and security. President Boakai pledged that Liberia will advocate for conflict prevention, peacekeeping reforms, and the protection of civilians, particularly women and children.
He also reiterated Liberia’s commitment to increasing its contribution to UN peacekeeping missions. To ensure inclusive representation, the President announced plans to consult with women, youth, and citizens across the country, stating, “Liberia’s voice at the Council will reflect our people.”
The President also commended Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Liberia’s Permanent Mission to the UN, and the campaign teams in New York, Monrovia, and Addis Ababa for their tireless work in securing the seat.
“This victory is yours,” Boakai told Liberians at home and abroad. “When Liberia sits at the Council, it will be your hopes, resilience, and dreams that she will carry.”
Liberia will officially begin its two-year tenure on the council in January 2026.
