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Anashe Mpamombe, Correspondent

ZIMBABWE’S bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is a significant diplomatic milestone, one that represents not only an aspiration for greater global influence but also a reflection of the country’s evolving role in regional peacekeeping efforts.

With Russia’s endorsement of the bid, along with support from key nations, such as Cuba, India, and regional bodies like the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Zimbabwe has found itself on the cusp of potentially securing a position that would allow it to play a pivotal role in shaping global security decisions.

For Zimbabwe, the pursuit of a non-permanent seat on the UNSC for the 2027-2028 term is not merely a matter of prestige; it is a strategic move aimed at elevating its position on the global stage.

The backing from Russia is especially noteworthy, given Moscow’s status as one of the five permanent members of the UNSC, a group that holds significant sway over international peace and security.

His Excellency, President Mnangagwa meets Russia’s President, Vladmir Putin.

The Russian ambassador’s public endorsement of Zimbabwe’s bid demonstrates not just a shared political alignment, but recognition of Zimbabwe’s role in regional peace efforts, particularly within the SADC region.

This partnership is an essential aspect of Zimbabwe’s diplomatic outreach, as it strengthens bilateral ties with Russia, which could result in tangible benefits in terms of economic and political co-operation.

The endorsement of Zimbabwe’s bid by Russia is part of a broader trend in international diplomacy where countries increasingly recognise the importance of regional stability in global security.

Zimbabwe’s leadership in SADC has been commendable, with the country assuming the role of chairing the organisation and playing a key role in facilitating dialogue in regions plagued by conflict, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The Extraordinary Summit held in Harare on the crisis of eastern DRC exemplifies Zimbabwe’s commitment to peace building and its active participation in fostering regional stability. Such actions do not only enhance Zimbabwe’s standing within SADC but also highlight its potential as a constructive member of the UNSC, particularly when it comes to addressing African conflicts and peace initiatives.

The support from Cuba, India, and SADC further emphasises the importance of Zimbabwe’s regional and global relations in its bid for the UNSC seat. While the backing of powerful global players like Russia adds weight to Zimbabwe’s aspirations, the endorsement of neighbouring countries and regional bodies, such as SADC, is equally important. It signals a collective commitment to Zimbabwe’s role in shaping not just regional but also global peace and security policies.

SADC’s support, in particular, underscores the unity within the southern African region and the recognition that Zimbabwe’s leadership is crucial to the region’s development and stability. This support from regional bodies also reflects the desire for greater African representation within the UNSC, where the continent has historically been under-represented, despite being home to numerous peace and security challenges.

For Zimbabwe, securing a seat on the UNSC would be a transformative achievement, one that would elevate its standing on the global stage. But the process of gaining this seat is not without its challenges.

While the political and diplomatic backing from key countries provides a solid foundation, Zimbabwe should demonstrate that it can effectively contribute to the UNSC’s primary mandate of maintaining international peace and security.

The UNSC is a body where the dynamics of geopolitics are complex, and the interests of member states often conflict. As such, Zimbabwe’s inclusion would require a commitment to balancing the interests of various parties, fostering dialogue, and promoting peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Zimbabwe’s diplomatic engagement over the years has often been characterised by a commitment to principles of sovereignty, peace, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations.

However, in the context of the UNSC, Zimbabwe will need to navigate the delicate balance between maintaining these principles and actively contributing to the resolution of conflicts, often involving the mediation of competing interests.

Zimbabwe’s history of involvement in peacekeeping missions within the SADC and its continued efforts to mediate conflicts in Africa could be crucial in demonstrating its capability to play a meaningful role in the UNSC.

The country’s experience in the region gives it a unique perspective on the challenges faced by African nations, making it a potential advocate for African solutions to African problems on the global stage.

Moreover, Zimbabwe’s diplomatic strategy should focus on leveraging its relations with other global powers to ensure that it remains a constructive and credible member of the UNSC.

While Russia’s support is vital, Zimbabwe should also work to build strong ties with Western powers, as the UNSC often operates in a climate of competing interests between the East and the West.

The country’s foreign policy approach will need to be nuanced, promoting peace while also seeking to advance its national interests in a complex global order.

The UNSC is not a platform for unqualified support of one bloc or another; rather, it is a forum where the most effective contributions often come from states that can maintain neutrality while advocating for solutions based on dialogue and consensus.

It is also essential to recognise that Zimbabwe’s bid for a UNSC seat comes at a time when the international community is re-evaluating the structure and functioning of global governance institutions.

There is growing sentiment, particularly within Africa, that the UNSC is in need of reform to better reflect the current geopolitical realities. A seat on the UNSC would allow Zimbabwe to contribute to this discourse, advocating for reforms that would ensure greater representation and influence for African nations.

Zimbabwe could play a pivotal role in pushing for a more inclusive and representative UNSC, one that better addresses the security concerns of the Global South, especially given the continent’s central role in global peace and security matters.

While Zimbabwe’s bid is undoubtedly an ambitious one, the country has proven itself capable of making significant strides in diplomacy and peace building in recent years. The support it has received is a testament to its growing influence and the recognition of its contributions to global peace.

However, the success of Zimbabwe’s bid for a UNSC seat will ultimately depend on its ability to continue demonstrating its commitment to global peace, security, and cooperation. The path ahead may be challenging, but Zimbabwe’s increasing role in regional peacekeeping efforts, combined with the strong diplomatic relations it is building, positions it as a strong contender for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC.

Zimbabwe’s quest for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC is not merely a diplomatic ambition, it is a strategic step toward securing a more prominent role in global affairs. If successful, Zimbabwe’s tenure on the UNSC could mark a new chapter in its foreign policy, one where it becomes an influential voice on the world stage, advocating for peace, co-operation, and the interests of developing nations.