80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

Informal meeting of the plenary on the intergovernmental negotiations on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Council

February 20, 2026

Co-Chairs,

My delegation aligns with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of St. Lucia on behalf of the L.69 group, and would like to convey our strong support for the ongoing discussions surrounding Security Council reform.

Co-Chairs,

My delegation is pleased to contribute its perspectives on categories of membership. It is our firm view that any reformed Council must be more representative, transparent, and accountable if it is to preserve its legitimacy and effectively respond to contemporary peace and security challenges. Thus, we would need an increase in both permanent and non-permanent membership in the Council.

The current composition no longer reflects contemporary political, demographic, and economic realities. Developing countries comprise a large share of the United Nations membership and population, yet their presence on the Council, particularly in the permanent category, remains limited.

An enhanced cross-regional representation is essential to ensure that all groups of States, including small island developing States and other vulnerable countries, are better reflected in the Council’s work. A dedicated and elected seat for SIDS must be part of the outcome.

We also support a reform process that makes sure all member states, especially those most affected by the Council’s decisions, are heard. This means not only expanding membership but also making decision-making more open and inclusive, so every region is fairly represented.

Finally, my delegation reiterates that progress on regional and cross-regional representation should be captured in a more structured, text-based manner, in line with the convergences that have emerged over successive IGN cycles. Micronesia stands ready to engage constructively with all delegations to achieve a balanced, inclusive reform that reinforces the Security Council’s overall legitimacy and effectiveness.

Thank you!