The United Nations, through its global membership and the wide mandate it enjoys through the member states in terms of its charter, is in the centre of the global system of governance. South Africa recognizes the need for social and economic development. The country expects the UN to advance the global development agenda by addressing underdevelopment and the eradication of poverty.

Through participation in the multilateral forums, South Africa supports the peaceful resolution of international conflict, with the UN Charter and international law being central.

The UNGA is the central forum of the UN to develop countries through its global interest and democratic decision-making processes. South Africa supports the initiatives to strengthen the UNGA and its role in multilateralism.

United Nations Reform

Intergovernmental negotiations were launched on 29 February 2009 in line with Decision 62/557 of the UNGA. It focuses on key aspects of categories of membership, the veto, regional representation and the size of an enlarged council.

The working methods and the relationship between the UNGA and the UNSC are also scrutinized. South Africa supports and actively participates in all negotiations. The UN Secretariat and management reform are focus areas. South Africa continues to demand better accountability and levels of system supervision. The country also promotes a more efficient, transparent and service-orientated secretariat that responds more effectively to its mandates.

United Nations Security Council

The country served on the UNSC in 2007-2008 and 2011-2012. South Africa is honoured to once again serve as a non-permanent member for the period 2019-2020.

South Africa will be guided by its commitment to multilateralism, the advancement of the African Agenda and the peaceful resolution of conflict.