By Foday Moriba Conteh
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has on Friday August 9, 2024 land in New York to take on his new role as the President of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of August. This event marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time in over 50 years that Sierra Leone has held such a prestigious position within the world’s foremost body dedicated to maintaining international peace and security.
Upon his arrival, President Bio expressed both pride and optimism for the month ahead. “I am pleased to announce my safe arrival in New York, where I look forward to presiding over several critical sessions as we lead the United Nations Security Council this August,” he said. “I am confident that our efforts will yield significant and impactful outcomes.”
President Bio highlighted the historic nature of Sierra Leone’s presidency, underscoring its importance for the nation and the African continent. “Today is truly a landmark moment in our history as we begin our presidency of the United Nations Security Council,” he stated. “Our goal is to facilitate meaningful dialogue rooted in mutual trust and respect, aiming for peaceful and sustainable resolutions to conflicts and addressing global challenges collectively.”
A key focus of President Bio’s tenure will be advocating for reforms within the Security Council, particularly regarding Africa’s representation. “We will work closely with the P5 and regional groups to vigorously pursue Security Council reform, ensuring the inclusive and equitable representation of Africa’s 1.2 billion people. Seventy-nine years after the founding of the United Nations, it is time to correct this historical injustice,” he asserted.
During his time at the helm of the UNSC, President Bio will be briefed by Michael Imran Kanu, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, as well as by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Alhaji Timothy Kabba.
On August 12, President Bio will lead a high-profile UNSC debate titled “Addressing the Historical Injustice and Enhancing Africa’s Effective Representation in the UN Security Council,” which is expected to be a cornerstone of his presidency.
Sierra Leone’s assumption of the UNSC presidency follows its successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the Council, which began on January 1, 2024. For the month of August, the country will guide the Council’s agenda, preside over meetings and collaborate with other members to address any international crises that may arise.
President Bio’s schedule also includes a series of high-level bilateral meetings, including discussions with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Dr. Dennis Francis, President of the General Assembly. Additionally, he will inaugurate the Sierra Leone Peace Exhibition at the United Nations, curated by the Sierra Leone Peace Museum and organized by the country’s Permanent Mission to the UN.
This prestigious role not only elevates Sierra Leone’s standing on the global stage but also presents an opportunity to contribute significantly to international peace and security.
