21/06/2025
Dr Lam Akol Ajawin Challenges Russia Over Africaโs Exclusion from Permanent UNSC Seats at SPIEF 2025
Lam Akol Ajawin, South Sudanโs Minister of Transport, has publicly questioned the global balance of power, asking Russian officials why Africa remains without a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Speaking on Thursday at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2025) during a high-level session centered on Russia-Africa cooperation, Ajawin highlighted the imbalance, noting that Africa's population exceeds Europe's, yet it lacks representation among the UNSCโs five permanent members.
โWhy is Africa still denied a permanent seat on the UN Security Council?โ Ajawin asked, directing his comments to Russian delegates. He argued that Africa deserves not only a seat but also veto rights, which he claimed have historically been used against African interests.
Ajawin also called on participants at SPIEF to engage with Africa on equal terms, underscoring the importance of respecting African sovereignty in economic partnerships. Drawing historical context, he referenced Africaโs marginalization during the era of the League of Nations, where the continent was treated as inferior rather than as an equal partner.
His remarks sparked discussion among attendees, with some Russian officials reportedly suggesting that African nations should focus more on education and technological advancement to better leverage opportunities with countries like Russia.
At present, three of the five UNSC permanent members France, the United Kingdom, and Russia are European nations, while Africa remains without permanent representation.
Via: ICT and Postal