King Mswati III of Eswatini has called for renewed international cooperation and greater African representation at the United Nations Security Council during his address to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The King spoke on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, during the General Debate, joining world leaders at the annual high-level gathering. The 81st session is themed "Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all."
King Mswati noted that the international community is meeting at a time of persistent conflicts, widening inequalities, climate-related disasters, and continuing poverty and insecurity. He emphasized that the United Nations should be more than a platform for discussing global problems, but also play an active role in finding solutions. The King stated that the true test of international cooperation is whether a child in a conflict-affected community can live without fear, a young person can find decent employment, and a developing nation can access finance to build its future.
The King expressed concern that confidence in multilateral institutions has weakened due to unmet commitments and financing pledges, while developing countries face substantial investment gaps in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. He also highlighted the financial pressure faced by countries where debt servicing consumes more resources than sectors like healthcare and education. King Mswati renewed Eswatini's call for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council, despite the Ezulwini Consensus being adopted in 2005.
King Mswati questioned how many more times African leaders would have to travel to New York to call for fair representation on the council. He stated that Africa is being denied an opportunity to contribute fully to decisions concerning global security. The King called for diplomatic and political solutions to conflicts worldwide, emphasizing that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through military victories alone. He said that while war may create temporary victories on the battlefield, only through dialogue can sustainable peace be established.
The King emphasized that the United Nations should remain a place where dialogue is possible and called for greater support for African-led peace initiatives. He also mentioned that Eswatini would use its regional responsibilities to contribute to peace and stability in Southern Africa, having assumed the chairmanship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation during the 46th SADC Summit.
King Mswati stated that Eswatini will work with SADC member states to strengthen preventive diplomacy, dialogue, and mediation. He expressed the country's commitment to contributing to peace and stability in the region, believing that for SADC to attain its vision 2050, collective efforts are necessary. The King reaffirmed Eswatini's dedication to promoting peace, security, and cooperation in Southern Africa.
The King's address to the UN General Assembly highlights the need for strengthened global cooperation, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by developing countries. His call for African representation on the UN Security Council and support for African-led peace initiatives underscores the importance of inclusive decision-making and regional cooperation. As the international community continues to navigate complex global challenges, King Mswati's message emphasizes the need for collective action and cooperation.
Key points
- King Mswati III calls for renewed international cooperation and greater African representation at the UN Security Council.
- The King emphasizes the need for diplomatic and political solutions to conflicts worldwide.
- Eswatini assumes regional security role, committing to contribute to peace and stability in Southern Africa.
