This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
On June 17, 2020, Kenya made history by winning a seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), defeating Djibouti in a closely contested vote.
The UN General Assembly held a second round of voting after the first round failed to produce a clear winner, with both countries falling short of the required two-thirds majority of 128 votes.
Kenya ultimately secured 129 votes, while Djibouti received 62, securing Kenya's spot on the 15-member council.
Kenya will join Norway, Ireland, India, and Mexico as non-permanent members for a two-year term starting on January 1, 2021, replacing South Africa.
The UNSC has five permanent members with veto power and 10 elected members, with seats allocated to regional groups and five new members elected every year.
As the only UN body with the power to make legally binding decisions, the UNSC plays a crucial role in maintaining international peace and security.
Notably, the number of women on the council will double from two to four, with Norway's Mona Juul and Ireland's Geraldine Byrne Nason joining in January.
