Ethiopia’s Seventy-Five Years Journey in the United Nations

Ethiopia, as one of the oldest independent nations in the world, has been at the forefront in upholding a foreign policy based on multilateralism and collective security.

Ethiopia was the only African nation represented in the League of Nations – the forerunner to the United Nations.

At the end of the Second World War when world nations decided to form a body that ascertains world order and reconstruction, Ethiopia was prominently represented as a founding member of the United Nations, signing the UN Charter in June 26, 1945.

Successive regimes in Ethiopia have given due importance to the undertakings of the United Nations within the framework of protecting the national interest of the nation while promoting mutual benefits.

Ethiopia has been true to the spirit of common development by contributing all it can in tackling global challenges of our times that range from terrorism, climate change, migration and underdevelopment.

It has also played a prominent role in the maintenance of world peace and security. It is one of the largest troop contributing countries for the United Nations Peace Operations with more than 8000 blue helmet troops.

Commanding a disciplined and effective troop successfully serving in various missions in many parts of the world, Ethiopia also has a colorful record in deploying women peacekeeping officers as early as the 1950s.

Ethiopia has served on three occasions as a nonpermanent member of the United Nations Security Council representing the cause of Africa. With a longstanding track record in promoting the interest of developing countries in the United Nations, Ethiopia is a seat for the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

With many African member states part of the United Nations today, Ethiopia is proud that we stand together with a common voice and in collective leadership in this fora.

The increasing transformation of the continent as a global player is sourced in speaking with one voice on various issues. The hallmark of Agenda 2063 is the African pledge to speak with one voice and act collectively in promoting its common interests in the international arena.

Our membership in the United Nations as proud African countries gives us the impetus to act collectively and in a unified voice.

Source: Office of the Prime Minister