Morocco enters race for permanent UN Security Council seat as Africa pushes for reform

Morocco has emerged as one of the African nations under consideration for permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council, as renewed Chinese calls for greater African representation reignite debate over which countries might occupy the proposed seats.

Speaking at the Global Governance Forum in Xiong’an on 23 October, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged reforms to increase developing countries’ representation on the Council, with particular attention to African demands. His remarks followed a September 2024 proposal by the United States to create two permanent Security Council seats for African countries, though Washington opposed granting veto powers to new members.

Potential candidates for African seats

Morocco, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria and Ethiopia have all featured in discussions about possible African representation, reflecting their differing diplomatic, economic and regional roles. For Morocco, potential arguments include its participation in UN peacekeeping operations, diplomatic engagement across Africa, investments in other African economies and security cooperation with international partners. The kingdom’s constitution also identifies stronger cooperation and solidarity with African countries, particularly those in the Sahel and sub-Saharan Africa, as a national commitment.

South Africa could point to its diplomatic profile and experience in multilateral institutions, while Nigeria’s population and regional influence make it another frequently mentioned candidate. Egypt brings longstanding diplomatic experience, a significant military establishment and a strategic position linking Africa and the Middle East. Ethiopia hosts the African Union headquarters, while Algeria has an established role in African diplomacy and regional security discussions.

However, no agreement has been reached on which countries would occupy any new permanent seats.

Africa demands veto powers

A major obstacle remains the difference between international reform proposals and Africa’s collectively adopted position. Under the Ezulwini Consensus, the African Union demands at least two permanent seats with full privileges, including veto powers while those powers continue to exist, alongside five non-permanent seats.

The US proposal excludes new veto rights, creating a significant difference with the African position. The African Union also maintains that Africa should select its own representatives, rather than have individual countries designated by outside powers.

Morocco, a key Arab and North African nation, has long sought to expand its influence across the continent through economic and diplomatic initiatives, making its candidacy part of a broader regional competition for leadership in Africa.