Zimbabwe's UNSC bid gets key Nordic support

Zimbabwe's campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term has gained momentum after Nordic countries formally endorsed its candidature.

The endorsement was announced during the 22nd Africa–Nordic Foreign Ministers' meeting held in Victoria Falls yesterday, in a move that underscores growing international confidence in Zimbabwe's diplomatic re-engagement efforts.

Zimbabwe's UNSC bid was recently launched at the UN Headquarters in New York by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira on behalf of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The campaign is anchored on strengthening multilateralism, advancing peaceful conflict resolution, enhancing regional cooperation, and increasing the participation of women and youth in peace processes.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide described Zimbabwe as "a very strong candidate," stressing that the Nordic bloc would align with Africa's collective choice. "We are always eager to see what the African countries propose, and we will take the lead of the African community. We will be very supportive as we have been before," Eide said.

He also tied Zimbabwe's candidacy to broader calls for reforming the Security Council to secure permanent African representation, a longstanding demand from the continent.

The Nordic endorsement adds to Zimbabwe's backing from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU).

Speaking at the Victoria Falls gathering, Prof Murwira reaffirmed Zimbabwe's determination to play a constructive role in global peace and security. "Guided by the commitment to peace, Zimbabwe has presented its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027–2028, determined to share its experiences and make its contribution in promoting a safe and secure world," he said.

Murwira further emphasized Zimbabwe's foreign policy stance of being "a friend to all and an enemy to none," adding that a Security Council seat would allow the country to build on its history of constructive engagement in regional and international peace efforts.

"With a seat on the Security Council, Zimbabwe will draw on its many years of constructive involvement in regional and international peace and security initiatives to positively contribute to shaping the UN's action on contemporary peace and security challenges," he added.

Zimbabwe's UNSC election is scheduled for June 2026.