Algeria’s Presidency of the UN Security Council.. Championing Justice and Amplifying Africa’s Voice
Algeria’s presidency of the United Nations Security Council in January 2025 marked a significant milestone in the country’s diplomatic journey. With a strong focus on Arab and African priorities, Algeria used this platform to advocate for just causes, address global security challenges, and amplify the voice of Africa on the world stage.
Championing Just Causes and Global Security
Under the guidance of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Algeria’s diplomatic efforts successfully brought forward key global issues in the Security Council, including the central Palestinian cause, the situation in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan, as well as the ongoing crises in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, and Colombia. Algeria’s active participation reflected a firm commitment to global peace and security.
One of the most significant topics raised was the Palestinian issue. During a critical Security Council meeting, Algeria emphasized the importance of establishing a fair and lasting political solution under the United Nations’ guidance, ensuring the establishment of a Palestinian state. Algeria also voiced its strong support for UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, which faces a threat of closure from the Zionist entity.
Addressing Regional Conflicts
Algeria’s diplomatic role also extended to the Middle East and North Africa. On Lebanon, Algeria called for concerted efforts between the Arab League and the United Nations to help stabilize the country and prevent further costly and tragic unrest. Similarly, regarding Syria, Algeria emphasized the need for both organizations to assist Syria in restoring peace and sovereignty across its territory.
In Yemen, Algeria, as part of the “A3+” group, advocated for an end to military interventions that undermine peace efforts and supported a Yemeni-led political process under the UN’s oversight to achieve lasting peace and stability.
Advancing Libya’s Interests on the Global Stage
Algeria also played a pivotal role in securing historical decisions that benefited Libya. The country succeeded in obtaining approval for the Libyan Investment Authority to reinvest frozen Libyan assets in international financial institutions, a major step in protecting these assets and ensuring their long-term value. Additionally, Algeria’s efforts resulted in a decision requiring the UN sanctions committee on Libya to inform Libyan authorities of all communications related to frozen assets, providing Libya with a clearer path to tracking and managing its financial resources.
A Strong Advocate for Africa: Combating Terrorism
Algeria’s presidency also highlighted the country’s significant leadership role in combating terrorism, particularly in Africa. With President Tebboune serving as the official spokesperson for Africa on terrorism issues, Algeria organized a high-level meeting to draw global attention to the growing threat of terrorism in the Sahel and Sahara regions.
The meeting underscored the need for international cooperation to address this global threat, which Algeria views as a challenge that goes beyond Africa’s borders. The country’s experience in fighting terrorism provided valuable insights into a comprehensive approach to tackling both the root causes and manifestations of violent extremism.
International Recognition for Algeria’s Efforts
Algeria’s proactive leadership in the fight against terrorism was widely acknowledged. African ministers and the African Union’s Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, praised President Tebboune’s leadership in advancing Africa’s counter-terrorism efforts. Under his guidance, Algeria’s efforts have become a model for collaborative work in the African continent’s fight against terrorism.
A significant achievement during Algeria’s presidency was the Security Council’s adoption of a presidential statement highlighting the African Union’s institutional framework for combating terrorism. This marked the first time that the international community recognized the African Union’s pivotal role in countering terrorism, with President Tebboune at the helm.
A Legacy of Diplomacy and Global Impact
Algeria’s presidency of the UN Security Council demonstrated the nation’s commitment to defending just causes, advancing peace, and amplifying the voice of Africa in international discussions. Through its diplomatic efforts, Algeria not only strengthened its position on the global stage but also contributed to a more secure, stable, and just world. The decisions made during this pivotal month will have lasting impacts on the international community’s approach to conflict resolution and the fight against terrorism.
