| Abstract: | Debate has been raging about the role of the United Nations Security Council in maintaining international peace and security. In the light of the overwhelming changes that have taken place since the formation of the UN in 1945, notably the phenomenal increase in its membership and the end of the Cold War, many countries see the Council as a deeply flawed instrument. The present article discusses Security Council reform. It addresses the issue of the Council's democratic deficit, the relevance of the veto power, the Council's working methods and procedure with a view to ensuring that its business is more open and transparent, and the desirability of having African countries as permanent members. In the envisaged expansion of Security Council membership, Africa is insisting on two permanent and five non-permanent members. Three prominent contenders for the permanent seats are Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa. In selecting Africa's representatives in the Council, consideration should be given to each country's contribution to peacekeeping efforts on the continent, its numerical strength and its loyalty to the UN and its agencies. It is important that as far as Africa's representation is concerned, the continent speaks clearly and with one voice. Notes, ref., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract] |
AfricaBib 
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Leiden University catalogue
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