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

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Sunday called for deep reforms to 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 the colonial legacy, and the continent’s lack of representation in the institutions created after World War II has affected its role in global decision-making.

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

Turning 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 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 under the African Continental Free Trade Area, which he said is expected to reach $230 billion this year.

According to Guterres, developing trade within the continent could help African countries retain more economic value within their own economies, rather than relying mainly on raw-material exports.