A new policy brief has highlighted how Sierra Leone used its 2024–2025 seat at the United Nations Security Council to promote African unity, global cooperation, and stronger representation for the continent.
The report, produced by Amani Africa, says Sierra Leone’s time on the Council came at a difficult moment for the world. It notes rising global tensions, weak respect for international law, and growing division among powerful countries. These challenges, the report says, have made it harder for the UN Security Council to act effectively.
Despite this, Sierra Leone is praised for using its position to push what the report calls “principled multilateralism” — working with other countries while standing firm on international law and African interests.
During its tenure, Sierra Leone focused on key issues such as peacebuilding, conflict prevention, human rights, food security, climate-related risks, and the fight against terrorism. It also supported the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas.
The report highlights the role of African countries working together through the A3 group — African members of the Security Council. It says cooperation among these countries helped Africa speak with one voice and gain more influence in global decisions.
Sierra Leone also went beyond African issues by engaging in global crises, including conflicts in other regions. The report says this approach helped build credibility and showed that African countries can contribute to solving global problems, not just those on the continent.
Another key point raised is the need for reform at the UN Security Council. The report argues that Africa is still underrepresented and calls for changes to make the Council more fair and effective. It also stresses the importance of stronger cooperation between the UN and African institutions like the African Union.
The policy brief further notes that Sierra Leone played important roles in sanctions committees and diplomatic negotiations, showing that smaller countries can still have strong influence through strategy and collaboration.
It concludes that Africa must continue to work together, build strong partnerships, and invest in its own peace and security systems. The report says the continent should not withdraw from global affairs but instead play a more active role in shaping international decisions.
Sierra Leone’s experience, the report adds, shows that even in a divided world, African countries can turn challenges into opportunities through unity, clear strategy, and consistent diplomacy.
