The Politics of the United States (US) Campaign Towards Africa's Admission to The United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The study examined the politics in the United States (U.S.) campaign for Africa’s inclusion into the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The study utilized a descriptive analytical approach, providing a detailed description of the subject using secondary sources of information. The sources were selected due to their expansive perspective and historical context, which are essential in understanding the complexity of the U.S. position on African membership of the UNSC. Besides descriptive analysis, content analysis was applied as a complementary technique to scientifically scrutinize official papers, policy statements, speeches, and press statements. It helped to detect repetitive themes, strategic narratives, and rhetorical tropes that unveil hidden agendas within the U.S. campaign. Using both techniques afforded a richer, more multidimensional insight into the issue. Findings from the study revealed that while the United States has been vocal in supporting Africa’s inclusion in the UNSC, this support can be interpreted as a strategic move to counterbalance China and Russia’s growing influence on the continent. Despite its public stance as an ally to African governments, the U.S. has not advocated for veto power for African nations, should in case its campaign for African nations become a reality. This raises questions about its genuine commitment to full equality within the UNSC, with African nations included. The study also found that Africa’s bid is complicated by internal divisions among African countries, which struggle to reach a consensus on a representative for the continent. In addition, bureaucratic inertia within the UNSC, particularly regarding reform efforts, continues to delay meaningful progress. Based on these findings, the study recommended that the U.S. should push for full veto rights for African nations in the UNSC if it becomes a reality, to ensure equitable representation. It also urged African nations, through the African Union (AU), to unify and present a coordinated, single candidacy to strengthen their position in UNSC negotiations. Finally, the UNSC was advised to streamline its reform processes to avoid delays in decisions related to membership expansion, including Africa’s inclusion.
Source: International and Public Affairs
Institution: University of Abuja
Language: English
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411840050