Five countries elected to UN Security Council

Latvia, Colombia, Liberia, Congo, and Bahrain—have been elected to the United Nations Security Council in an uncontested vote.

Each will serve a two-year term starting January 1, 2026, replacing Algeria, Guyana, Sierra Leone, South Korea, and Slovenia.

Latvia joins the Council for the first time in its history. Foreign Minister Baiba Braže said the country’s past under Soviet rule gives it a unique perspective on freedom, peace, and support for Ukraine. “We know the fragility of peace,” she said after the vote on Tuesday, June 3.

Liberia returns to the Council for the first time since 1961. Deputy Foreign Minister Deweh Gray said the country will champion Africa’s common position and address global issues including conflict, inequality, and climate change.

Congo, now entering its third term, promised to bring lessons from its long-running conflicts and experience with UN peacekeeping. Foreign Minister Thérèse Wagner said the vote reflects Africa’s unity and rightful role in shaping global peace efforts.

Colombia will push for human rights and environmental protection. Ambassador Leonor Zalabata called for global unity and said Colombia will continue its work “in harmony with nature.”

Bahrain, which last served on the Council in 1998, will represent the Arab world. 

The UN Security Council, made up of 15 members, holds primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. 

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