African Leaders Warn UN Powers Over Veto Abuse

African leaders attending the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi have issued a strong message to powerful countries sitting on the United Nations Security Council, urging them to avoid using veto powers during major global humanitarian crises.

The statement was released on May 12, 2026, during a peace and security session co-chaired by Kenya’s President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Although the declaration did not mention specific countries by name, the message targeted the five permanent members of the UN Security Council: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, and France.

Leaders Warn Against Veto Use During Mass Atrocities

In the joint declaration, leaders said permanent members of the Security Council should avoid using the veto when genocide, crimes against humanity, and large-scale war crimes are taking place.

“We affirm that the responsible use of the veto helps to strengthen the credibility and moral authority of the UN Security Council,” the declaration stated.

“We call upon the permanent members of the Security Council to refrain from using the veto in case of mass atrocities, when crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes on a large scale are committed,” the leaders added.

African Leaders Push for UN Security Council Reforms

The summit also renewed calls for reforms at the United Nations Security Council.

African leaders said the current structure no longer reflects modern global realities and demanded a more representative system.

They supported the Common African Position, including the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, which call for Africa to have permanent representation at the Security Council.

“We recognize the urgent need for a comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to make it more effective and representative,” the declaration said.

Also Read: Macron and Ruto Unveil Africa Forward 2026 Summit Declaration

Leaders Reject Foreign Interference in Africa

The summit also addressed growing concerns over foreign influence and private military operations in Africa.

Leaders rejected what they called the “privatisation of security by external operators,” warning that such activities increase instability on the continent.

“We reject external interference and the privatisation of security by external operators whose interests are not those of Africa,” the statement read.

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Focus on African-Led Peace Solutions

The declaration emphasized that African countries should lead mediation and peace efforts involving conflicts on the continent.

The leaders emphasized the role of the African Union and regional organizations in finding lasting political solutions.

They also called for stronger institutional support to address conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, the Great Lakes region, and the Sahel.

“We call for the strengthening of institutional capacities and collective security mechanisms to address ongoing conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, the Great Lakes region, Somalia, and the Sahel region through the cessation of hostilities, inclusive dialogue, counter-terrorism, capacity building, and regional, “said the leaders.

The summit concluded by highlighting the connection between peace, economic growth, and youth empowerment.

Leaders said Africa’s future stability depends on investment in education, climate resilience, and opportunities for young people across the continent.

“We underline the link between security and inclusive economic growth, youth empowerment, education, climate resilience, and diaspora engagement.”

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