Guterres calls for reform of global institutions and permanent African representation at the UN

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday called for deep reforms in global governance structures, demanding permanent African representation on the UN Security Council and the reform of international financial institutions.

Speaking at the “Unstoppable Africa 2026” forum, on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Guterres said the international financial architecture must better reflect the needs of developing countries, particularly African ones.

According to him, Africa has faced the consequences of colonial legacy, and its lack of representation in institutions created after World War II has affected the continent’s role in global decision-making.

Guterres said that neither the UN Security Council nor the international financial institutions sufficiently reflect Africa’s demographic weight and interests. He called for the continent to be given permanent seats on the Security Council.

Referring to economic development, the UN chief stressed that global economic relations with Africa are shifting from the model of “doing business in Africa” to “doing business with Africa.”

Despite the uncertainties caused by the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, Guterres said Africa’s economy grew by 4.4% last year. He also mentioned trade within the African Continental Free Trade Area, which he said is expected to reach $230 billion this year.

According to Guterres, the development of intra-continental trade could help African countries retain more economic value within their economies, instead of relying mainly on raw material exports.