Kazakh leader urges inclusion of Asian and African states in UN Security Council

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has called for the expansion of the United Nations Security Council to include countries such as Germany, Japan, and representatives from Asia and Africa. He also emphasized the need for the inclusion of developing nations on a rotational basis.

“First and foremost, the Security Council must be expanded,” Tokayev said in an interview with Al Jazeera. “Newly emerging developing countries should become part of this key UN body, possibly on a rotational basis.”

According to the Kazakh leader, major powers like Japan and Germany, as well as representatives from Asian and African nations, should be granted seats on the Security Council or otherwise involved in its activities.

Tokayev reiterated Kazakhstan’s support for reforming the UN, stating that “middle powers like Kazakhstan should play a more meaningful role in resolving and addressing major international issues.”

He also noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.

“Established in 1945 by 51 countries in the aftermath of a devastating world war, the UN offered a bold vision for a more peaceful and secure world. Today, the organisation consists of 193 member states, representing a more diverse, complex, and interconnected global community. However, the core structures of the UN, particularly the Security Council, have seen little change over time,” Tokayev said.

Tokayev has consistently advocated for reforming the UN and its Security Council, warning that the body is in crisis and that trust must be restored through structural changes. He has also urged for greater involvement of middle powers like Kazakhstan in tackling global challenges.

The UN Security Council currently includes five permanent members with veto power: the United States, Russia, France, China, and the United Kingdom. In 2023, US President Joe Biden proposed expanding the Council. Leaders of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) — comprising Australia, India, the US, and Japan — have also supported its enlargement. French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that permanent seats be given to Germany, Japan, India, and Brazil. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has opposed the inclusion of Japan and Germany, instead advocating for expansion with Brazil, India, and African nations.

By Tamilla Hasanova