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The five new countries added to the UN Security Council

Annalena Baerbock of Germany addresses the United Nations General Assembly after she was elected as president of the 80th session of the body, Monday, June 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew) — Annalena Baerbock of Germany addresses the United Nations General Assembly after she was elected as president of the 80th session of the body, Monday, June 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew) (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Bahrain, Congo, Liberia, Colombia, and Latvia were elected to the UN Security Council, starting two-year terms in January.
Latvia will serve on the council for the first time, with Foreign Minister Baiba Braže emphasizing the nation's understanding of freedom and peace.
Bahrain's Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani highlighted the importance of resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict for regional peace, calling for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza.
The Security Council faces challenges due to veto powers, hindering resolutions on conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza, and there are ongoing debates about reforming the council's structure.
Representatives from Congo, Liberia, and Colombia emphasized their commitment to addressing global challenges such as conflict, inequality, climate change, and human rights during their terms on the council.

Five countries win seats on the UN Security Council — In full