Why we need permanent African representation on the UN Security Council - James Cleverly

As Foreign Secretary, I am proud of the UK’s ties to this continent. They are underpinned by our shared history, the diaspora communities in the UK and in African countries – as well as the countless professional connections across academia, business, defence and development. They are continually nourished by the precious bonds of friendship.

Now, as the UK’s Foreign Secretary I’m not allowed to have a favourite continent. But if I did, it would be Africa. My mother was born here. I am proud of my Sierra Leonean roots. I’m also proud of the United Kingdom’s contribution to the history of this great continent.

It was Ghana’s first president, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who said that his country faces neither east nor west. It faces forward.

That is very much my outlook too. It’s why I want to focus on our shared future in an era of geopolitical competition, demographic shifts, existential challenges and exciting new technologies as well.

We are living through an era when the tectonic plates of world politics are shifting decisively. And a battle of ideas is taking place once again. This time, its focus is on the nature and the future of the international order.

The UK’s position is clear. Respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, self-determination and human rights must prevail. Alongside democracy, the rule of law, liberty and freedom.

These are all values that we cherish, and they are values of the UN Charter. Alongside self-determination, territorial integrity and an end to all laws of conquest and annexation.

Russia’s attack of Ukraine and invasion of that country, is an attack on our shared values. An attack on the UN Charter and an attack on the international order.

But Russia has hit a new low. We are witnessing the grotesque spectacle of a G20 nation, deliberately burning food stocks whilst there are millions of people around the world struggling to eat.

We live in a world of rapidly increasing transnational threats. Climate change is the most urgent and obvious example.

We need strong multilateral institutions – particularly International Financial Institutions – that represent the world as it is today, economically, politically and demographically.

This is not currently the case. The UK recognises that. And we want to work with African leaders in partnership to change it.

We want and need a better-functioning International Financial System. We want and need permanent African representation on the UN Security Council. We want and need the African Union to become a member of the G20.

Because we want and need the sheer demographic heft of African countries to be appropriately recognised in international organisations. So that we can shape the future of our world in partnership with African countries.

An abridged version of a speech delivered by Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in Lagos, Nigeria.