Guyana, the rising oil star in South America, has secured a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the period 2024-2025. Guyana was elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, alongside Algeria, Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone and Slovenia, following a vote in the General Assembly on Tuesday, June 6.
Guyana received 191 votes, Sierra Leone 188, Algeria received 184 votes, South Korea 180, and Slovenia 153.
The achievement is seen as a testament to Guyana’s growing influence on the global geopolitical stage.
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, said “Guyana has now been accorded the opportunity to serve on the Security Council, which is charged under the UN Charter with the responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. It is a responsibility that we will assume with utmost seriousness and dedication, mindful of the complex and challenging times in which we live.”
Ali said Guyana is honoured to be elected. He recognised that the international community has shown confidence in and bestowed in Guyana the tremendous responsibility that comes with that position. The Security Council, under the UN Charter, plays a crucial role in maintaining global peace and security.
The theme of Guyana’s candidacy, “Partnering for Peace and Prosperity,” reflects the nation’s approach to its role on the Security Council, Ali said. He emphasized Guyana’s commitment to being a constructive and engaged partner, working alongside Council members and the wider international community to address the significant challenges facing humanity today.
Looking ahead, President Ali said Guyana is committed to strengthening multilateralism and upholding the rule of international law. He said the nation seeks to contribute to the promotion of peace, sustainable development, human rights, and respect for international law not only for its own people but for people worldwide.
Guyana’s recent ascent on the international stage has largely been attributed to its recent economic boom. The nation’s newfound notoriety and economic strength have enabled it to build its influence and play a more prominent role in regional and global affairs.
As Guyana embarks on its tenure on the UN Security Council, the international community will be watching closely to see how this rising oil star uses its newfound position to champion peace. It is notable that Guyana’s candidacy on the Council comes at a time when it is moving expeditiously to bring, to a judicial end, a controversy surrounding Venezuela’s claim for two-thirds of its territory.
