Liberia’s UN Security Council Seat: A Shared Victory, But Everyone Wants the Credit”

Monrovia, Liberia – June 3, 2025 –Liberia has been elected to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026–2027 terms, garnering 181 votes from the UN General Assembly. This victory stresses the nation’s commitment to global peace and security and is the culmination of concerted efforts by prominent Liberian leaders across different administrations.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: Championing Multilateralism and Reform

Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf played a significant role in bolstering Liberia’s UNSC bid. In February 2025, at the African Union (AU) Summit, she publicly commended Liberia’s diplomatic efforts, emphasizing the importance of Africa’s unity in securing permanent representation on the Security Council. Her advocacy highlighted Liberia’s leadership in promoting multilateralism and UNSC reform.

Former President Of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Additionally, in September 2024, Sirleaf addressed the UN Security Council as a member of The Elders, calling for urgent reforms and consistent enforcement of international law. She underscored the need for inclusive peace-building and the empowerment of women in leadership roles, reinforcing Liberia’s image as a proponent of global peace and justice.

George Weah: Laying the Diplomatic Foundation

Former President George Weah’s administration initiated Liberia’s campaign for the UNSC seat. In July 2023, under his leadership, Liberia secured unanimous endorsement from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for its candidacy. This foundational support was later reinforced by the African Union.

Former Liberian President George Weah

In September 2024, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti formally acknowledged Weah’s foundational efforts and global stature as a peace ambassador, requesting his support in the campaign’s final stages. Weah expressed support for the bid but raised concerns about domestic issues that could undermine Liberia’s credibility, such as a police raid on his party’s headquarters. Despite political tensions, Weah’s early diplomatic initiatives and regional endorsements were instrumental in Liberia’s election to the UNSC.

Sara Beysolow Nyanti: Steering the Diplomatic Campaign

As Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti spearheaded Liberia’s campaign for a UNSC seat. She actively engaged in diplomatic efforts, including securing endorsements from ECOWAS and the African Union. Her advocacy emphasized the need for UN reforms to ensure fairer global representation, particularly for African nations.

In May 2025, Nyanti met with United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau to discuss Liberia’s commitment to peace and its aspirations within the UN framework. Her diplomatic engagements were crucial in garnering support for Liberia’s successful election to the UNSC.

Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti

Beyond her diplomatic endeavors, Nyanti is an ordained reverend and a minister at Zion Grove Baptist Church in Brewerville, Liberia. She is known for her advocacy on social issues, including gender equality and youth empowerment. In 2014, she founded “The Development Brokers,” an NGO focused on community development and social change.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai: Consolidating International Support

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai played a pivotal role in consolidating international support for Liberia’s UNSC bid. In October 2024, he led a delegation to engage with stakeholders and lobby for Liberia’s candidacy. His efforts included attending a reception hosted by U.S. President Joseph R. Biden, where he reiterated Liberia’s commitment to global peace and sustainable development. 

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai

In a nationally televised address on June 3, 2025, President Boakai declared Liberia’s election to the UNSC as a landmark achievement and a powerful validation of the country’s journey from war to peace. He hailed the 2026–2027 non-permanent seat as more than just a diplomatic triumph, calling it a symbol of resilience, global recognition, and Africa’s unwavering pursuit of peace and justice. 

A Unified Effort for Global Representation

Liberia’s successful bid for a UNSC seat is a testament to the unified efforts of its leaders, transcending political affiliations and administrations. The collaborative endeavors of Sirleaf, Weah, Nyanti, and Boakai highlight a national commitment to global engagement and the promotion of peace and justice on the international stage.