The UN General Assembly is a major international event, bringing together heads of state and government from around the world each year to discuss global challenges and find common solutions. This year, the 78th session of the General Assembly opens in New York, with a particular focus on the situation in West Africa, where several countries have recently experienced coups.
One of the countries most affected by this instability is Guinea. Following the September 2021 military coup, the country is currently led by a transitional president, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya. This is his first official international outing since coming to power, and he should take this opportunity to reassure international partners about the management of the transition. Social and political protests in Guinea have been increasingly intense in recent times, and the transitional president will need to clarify his intentions regarding the organization of elections scheduled for next year.
Another country affected by instability is Mali, which has experienced several coups in recent years. Colonel Assimi Goïta, who currently leads the country, has mandated his Minister of Foreign Affairs to represent the country at the UN General Assembly. This participation comes as the UN Peacekeeping Mission begins to withdraw from Mali, at the request of the Malian authorities.
Burkina Faso, which has also experienced several recent coups, will send its civil service minister to the UN General Assembly. The country faces many challenges, particularly on the security level, and this participation aims to strengthen partnerships and seek joint solutions.
Gabon, which is about to appoint a new Parliament, will also be present at the UN General Assembly, with the participation of the Prime Minister. This presence testifies to the country’s commitment to international affairs despite the internal challenges it encounters.
Finally, Niger, whose elected president is still held by the military junta, sent its Minister of Foreign Affairs to the UN General Assembly. Although he has a diplomatic passport and accreditation to access the headquarters of the Organization, it is not certain that he can speak as head of Nigerien diplomacy. Members of the toppled regime are also trying to make themselves heard through various channels to express their position.
Overall, the participation of these countries in the UN General Assembly shows their commitment to cooperate with the international community despite the challenges they face. African heads of state and government attending this event will have the opportunity to speak on the challenges facing their countries and seek partnerships and support to address these challenges. The speeches of African leaders during this UN General Assembly are particularly anticipated, as they will provide information on their policies and strategies to overcome crises and promote peace and development in the region.