Australia to seek UN security council seat from 2029

Sydney, September 21 - Australia plans to seek a seat on the United Nations Security Council starting in 2029, announced Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday during his campaign for one of the two non-permanent seats available to its group. Albanese highlighted how Australia, which last held a two-year term on the council from 2013 to 2015, could play a significant role in addressing global issues that matter to Australians if selected for the Security Council.

Speaking at a UN General Assembly event, Albanese expressed his belief that Australia punches above its weight and could make a substantial impact on the world stage. He also anticipated strong backing from Pacific island nations and Southeast Asian countries, emphasizing his strong relationships with world leaders which would bolster Australia's bid.

However, he acknowledged that his approval rating at home had dropped to its lowest point since he began his first term in 2022. Albanese underscored that pressing issues like rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and climate change would make it in Australia's best interest to join the UN Security Council. The UN Security Council comprises 10 non-permanent members, with five elected each year.

Finland is the other candidate for the 2029-30 seat from the Western European and Others Group, alongside Australia. The Asia-Pacific, African, and Latin American and Caribbean groups will also nominate their respective representatives. Voting to determine the non-permanent members for the 2029-2030 term is expected to occur through a secret ballot in 2028.

The five permanent members of the UN Security Council are the United States, China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom.