UAE highlights urgency for Security Council reform

The United Arab Emirates reiterated its strong support for the ongoing efforts to reform the United Nations Security Council during a debate convened at the UN.

Aligning itself with Bahrain's statement on behalf of the Arab Group, the UAE underscored the importance of addressing the outdated geopolitical realities reflected in the Council's composition.

Congratulating Ambassador AlBanai and Ambassador Marschik for their reappointment as Co-Chairs of the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN), the UAE emphasised their leadership in advancing transparency and institutional memory.

The UAE also welcomed the progress made in the Pact for the Future, which set the stage for upcoming negotiations on reform.

UAE representatives stressed that the Security Council's current composition does not reflect the diversity of the international community, particularly the Global South.

They highlighted the underrepresentation of regions such as Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Arab World, which are most affected by the Council’s decisions. Specifically, they reiterated the Arab Group's call for increased Arab representation and recognised the aspirations of African nations for greater presence in the Council, as reflected in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.

The UAE also raised concerns over the misuse of the veto power, which it argued has paralyzed the Council’s decision-making process and undermined its effectiveness.

The UAE called for limitations on the veto, urging continued exploration of measures to encourage its more appropriate use.

In closing, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to open dialogue and meaningful reform, emphasising that a more representative and effective Security Council is essential for the credibility of the UN and the future of international peace and security.

The UAE called for good faith negotiations and compromise to restore trust and improve the functioning of the Security Council.