African Union to Seek Greater Voice in Global Governance at UN Meeting

The African Union is expected to use this week’s United Nations General Assembly meeting to seek a stronger role for Africa in global decision-making, including permanent African representation on the UN Security Council.

The annual gathering of world leaders begins on Tuesday at the United Nations headquarters in New York. Preparations were visible on Monday, when flags were raised outside the headquarters as police officers, canine teams and law-enforcement drones were deployed ahead of the high-level meeting.

Africa’s representation on the global stage

The African Union’s expected push for a bigger voice at the United Nations places reform of global governance among the central issues for the gathering. The bloc is expected to advocate for permanent African representation on the Security Council, although no outcome has been reported.

On Monday, the heads of the African Union and the United Nations met to discuss reforms to international financial institutions, debt sustainability and ways to ensure that Africa gains greater value from its mineral assets.

The meeting links the question of political representation with wider financial and economic concerns facing the continent. The source report did not identify the officials who took part or provide details of any decisions reached.

Kenya’s priorities

Kenya’s President Ruto will use his visit to promote issues including climate finance, reform of global governance, peace and security, and digital cooperation.

These priorities will form part of Africa’s broader engagement during the UN gathering, alongside discussions about the continent’s development needs and its role in international institutions.

UN development initiative

The UN Development Program will present an Africa-specific package focused on artificial intelligence, resources, data, talent and access to capital.

Further details about the package were not provided. Its presentation is expected to add a development and technology dimension to the discussions involving African priorities at the General Assembly.

The meeting comes as the African Union seeks greater influence in international decision-making and a larger share of the value generated from the continent’s resources.