Published: 7 hours ago

Zimbabwe has secured a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term after receiving overwhelming support from member states during elections held at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

The country garnered 182 out of 190 votes cast, the highest tally among all contesting nations, in what President Emmerson Mnangagwa described as a significant diplomatic milestone and a strong endorsement of Zimbabwe's foreign policy.

The victory marks Zimbabwe's third term as a non-permanent member of the Security Council, having previously served during 1983-1984 and 1991-1992.

Other countries elected to the Security Council for the 2027-2028 term include Austria, Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago. Their two-year terms will commence on January 1, 2027.

The Security Council is the United Nations' principal body responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Its five permanent members - China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and United States - hold veto powers over council resolutions.

Reacting to the result, President Mnangagwa hailed the election as evidence of growing international confidence in Zimbabwe.

"Today, Zimbabwe marks a significant diplomatic milestone as the nation has been elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, garnering 182 out of 190 votes," he said.

"This resounding victory underscores the effectiveness of our Engagement and Re-engagement agenda, demonstrating the global community's confidence in Zimbabwe's leadership and commitment to international peace."

The President said Zimbabwe would use its position on the Security Council to contribute meaningfully to global peace, security and multilateral cooperation while advancing Africa's interests on the world stage.

"I extend my sincere gratitude to the UN Member States for their support and to our diplomatic team for this outstanding achievement. Zimbabwe is open for business and now plays a pivotal role in shaping global peace," he said.

The successful bid follows an intensive diplomatic campaign led by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Amon Murwira and Zimbabwe's diplomatic missions around the world.

Speaking from New York after the election, Prof Murwira described the outcome as a strong endorsement of Zimbabwe's foreign policy doctrine of being a "friend to all and enemy to none."

"It's a very humbling result. One hundred and eighty-two countries voted for Zimbabwe, which was the highest of all the votes counted today. It's a big endorsement of Zimbabwe's policy of being a friend to all and an enemy to none," he said.

Prof Murwira praised President Mnangagwa for spearheading the campaign and said Zimbabwe would approach its new responsibilities with humility and dedication.

"This is a time for celebration, but it is also a time for responsibility. We are looking forward to working very well with all members of the Security Council and representing the interests of people across the world who expect peace, tranquillity and harmony," he said.

Zimbabwe's victory follows months of diplomatic outreach across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific, where officials sought support for the country's candidature.

The election is widely viewed as recognition of Zimbabwe's efforts to strengthen international engagement, expand bilateral relations and participate more actively in regional and global affairs.

As a member of the Security Council, Zimbabwe will participate in deliberations on major international issues, including conflict prevention and resolution, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian crises and emerging global security threats.

Analysts say the position offers Zimbabwe an opportunity to deepen international partnerships, strengthen diplomatic influence and advance African priorities within one of the world's most influential decision-making bodies.

The election is also expected to reinforce calls for greater African representation in global governance institutions, an issue that has long been championed by the continent's leaders.

Zimbabwe's candidature received strong backing from Southern African countries, the African Union and several partners across the Global South, support that proved instrumental in securing the required votes.

The election of non-permanent Security Council members is conducted through a secret ballot by member states in the United Nations General Assembly.
- The Herald

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