—-As Liberia officially Launches Bid Monday
IPNEWS: Liberia’s distinguished Diplomat, Ambassador Lewis G. Brown is calling for he galentry of Liberians both local and internationally towards supporting the Government’s going campings for a Non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Ambassador Brown stated that while e that may have heard Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, to represent Africa during the 2026-2027 term, however, it is important Liberians understand the important roles Liberia undertook in the formation of the UN and it’s responsible roles it continues to played in maintaining international peace and security.
Ambassador Brown stresses that although all 193 member states of the UN are entitled to equal representation to the General Assembly, however, only 15 countries can serve on the Security Council, five of which are permanent members with veto powers, and ten non-permanent members serve rotational terms of two years each.
“Africa has three seats on a non-permanent basis. The African Union has unanimously endorsed Liberia to represent Africa during the 2026-2027 term.Although Liberia is a founding member of the UN since June 1945, our country has only served on the Security Council once, in 1961, when it split a two-year term with the Republic of Ireland. When Liberia served on the United Nations Security Council in 1961, it made several notable contributions:
1. Liberia used its position to advocate for the unity and independence of African nations, particularly significant during a time when many African countries were still under colonial rule.
2. Liberia promoted and supported UN peacekeeping missions, including in the Congo, advocating for the deployment of peacekeeping forces to conflict zones in Africa to help stabilize regions and support post-conflict reconstruction.
3. Liberia acted as a mediator in various international disputes, leveraging its unique position as a symbol of black sovereignty and independence. This helped to foster dialogue and peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
4. Liberia strongly supported the decolonization process in Africa, encouraging the UN to take a more active role in supporting the independence movements of African nations.These contributions helped to shape the UN’s approach to African issues, amplified Liberia’s voice and political leadership in the world, and demonstrated Liberia’s commitment to peace, unity, and self-governance on the continent.” Ambassador Brown stressed.
The experienced Liberian Diplomat stated that that it is important for the younger generation to be aware of the tremendous contribution of Liberia to the United Nations alongside their much older compatriots who speak with remembrance about the Tubman years, and how Liberia’s respected international leadership translated to economic opportunities and potential for growth at home.
“The truth is that there is always a correlation between international political relevance and economic benefits to a country sitting on the Council. Liberia’s internal relevance in the 60s, including just a year on the UN Security Council, unarguably contributed to economic growth at home.”
“Elections are slated for early June this year, in New York, at the Headquarters of the United Nations. To succeed, we must receive at least 127 votes of the 193 member nations of the UN.When Liberia succeeds in the June elections, it will be 65 years since Liberia had the opportunity to sit on the highest platform of the world responsible for maintaining international peace and security. “
“This time, the chance to sit on the Council will be even more historically significant and prouder for our country as it would be the first time Liberia will serve a full two-year term.This bid is about us – each Liberian, and all of Liberians.”
” It is about all that we have suffered together, and continue to strive to overcome: The pains and scars of war, and the resilience and determination to survive. It is about the hardships we face and our will to become better, always hopeful for a better and brighter future.After 65 years, this bid for the Security Council is about our enduring national spirit that has seen us fall and rise, lifting ourselves from the ashes of our self-destruction to gain be counted as a responsible member of our world’s family, deserving of our legacy of global leadership and international respect.Fellow Liberians, let me be clear: This bid is not proof of our perfection as a nation – no country is – nor that we are prosperous and problem-free. What this bid is is a testament that we will never stop trying for unity over division, equality over disparity, citizenship over partisanship, making our democracy stronger and putting Liberia first and where it rightfully belongs.Our history has taught us that there is nothing we cannot do when we do it together.”
“It was together that we faced down and overcame Ebola, at a time when it was projected that we would all die at the rate of 20,000 a day! When our war seemed intractable and hopeless, we came together, across factions, parties, and civil society organizations, to agree to have peace, which endures even today.We have recorded rigged elections in the Guinness Book of World Records, but also we have had extraordinary success with democracy since the end of our war, seeing a woman get twice democratically elected president, and a sitting president concede electoral defeat. We have had multiple peaceful and democratic elections and transfers of power testifying to our growing democratic credentials, post-conflict success, and model peacebuilding transformation.”Ambassador Brown stresses.
Ambassador Brown noted that The “scars of Liberia’s awars may be forever seared into the national consciousness, but they have also taught us valuable lessons of peace and conflict resolution, experiences which uniquely position us to add value to discussions for global peace and security at the Security Council.And so,”
Highlighting his personal experience, Ambassador Brown stated that although the bid campaign has been formally launched in New York, where the actual voting will occur in June of this year, however, the President is determined to rally Liberians of all stripes and persuasions behind this historic international effort.
“Therefore, on Monday, February 10, at 11 am, at Liberia’s historic Centennial Pavilion on Ashmun Street, the President will rally all Liberians, both at home and abroad, in patriotic support of Liberia’s bid to join the United Nations Security Council.”
“Every Liberian, the diplomatic corps, religious leaders, traditional leaders, political leaders, civil society leaders, women and youth group leaders, students, teachers, and journalists—everyone is invited to attend, participate, celebrate, and cheer on the country we so dearly -the National Sports Meet just ended. We congratulate all of the winners and participants.”
“We want to inspire the same passion and fervor that was put into supporting your respective counties into supporting our country.We know that each county in our country has a flag.”
“We saw us wearing our county flags boldly and proudly, even though some cand barely speak the dialects of each county. We know that each political party has a flag, and partisans feel proud wrapping themselves in the colors of their party when required to do so.But it will be the flag of the Republic of Liberia thatl flies atop the UN Building, and after 65 years will adorn the sacred halls of the Security Council. The name plate before the seat will spell only Liberia, the country of all of us, for all of us.Whoever is privileged and honored to sit behind that name plate and in front of the flag shall be a representative of the Republic of Liberia and not of a tribe, county, or party. It is time to stand united and together for Liberia.I know that the adversarial nature of democratic politics, coupled with winners-take-all electoral conclusions, can leave many bitter after elections. I know we must disagree, as we should, about many things happening in our country. But as Liberians, we must never seem disagreeable about that which will definitely bring pride, political relevance, and economic benefits to our country. I know we don’t have to like and agree with an administration of our government, but we must never, ever, not love our country.The success of this bid, with the resounding support of Liberians, will elevate Liberia to its rightful place around the family table of the world. When Liberia is elevated, Liberians, both at home and across the diaspora, are similarly respected and elevated.Our country’s journey continues to be one of hope and determination.”
“Hope that no matter how tough things are today, our tomorrow will be better; and determination that no matter the adversity we may face today, we will overcome tomorrow. To any Liberian who thinks a successful bid will be undeserving and a waste of time, let me assure you that sitting on the UN Security Council will assuredly bring tangible benefits to our nation. Economic benefits, including increased foreign investment, job opportunities, and economic growth. “
“Together, we can achieve better infrastructure, improved living conditions, and a brighter future for our children. Imagine more jobs, better roads, access to clean water, and electricity. These are not just dreams; these are achievable goals that will make a real difference in our daily lives.For example, Sierra Leone, during its previous term on the UNSC, established lasting partnerships with countries and development partners, resulting in significant infrastructural projects such as the Youyi Building and the Siaka Stevens Stadium. Ghana, during its recent term, focused on enhancing global peace and security, which led to increased international cooperation and support for its domestic projects.”
“Supporting Liberia’s bid means investing in our future and the future of our children. When we elevate our relevance on the global stage, we position our country to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, development aid, and international partnerships. These benefits will directly translate into improved living conditions and increased opportunities for all Liberians.Finally, my fellow citizens: Our country’s bid is about more than just a seat at the world’s table; it is about shaping the future of our country and the world. We have an opportunity to come together to achieve greatness for ourselves, and secure a brighter future for generations to come. We have a chance to give new meaning to being born a Liberian, to hold a Liberian citizenship, and carry a Liberian passport.”
“Let us show the world that Liberia is ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference. Together, we can lift our flag high and proudly, announcing to the world that Liberia is back where it rightfully belongs.Our country needs us—each of us and all of us. Help Liberia win. Join this monumental effort to write a new story for Liberia. We can do this, together. If not us, then who? If not now, then when? Thank you, and may God bless and strength us on this historic journey of answering our national duty and meeting our international destiny.” Ambassador Brown rallied Liberians to support government efforts for the Non-permanent UNSC Seat.
