New York: The General Assembly today elected Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia, and Liberia as non-permanent members of the Security Council for a two-year term beginning on 1 January 2026. These nations will replace Algeria, Guyana, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, and Slovenia, whose terms expire on 31 December 2025.
According to EMM, all five countries secured the required two-thirds majority in a secret ballot. The regional distribution pattern allocated three seats to the African and Asia-Pacific States, with Bahrain, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Liberia obtaining 186, 183, and 181 votes, respectively. Latvia and Colombia, the sole candidates for the Eastern European and Latin American and Caribbean States, garnered 178 and 180 votes.
The Assembly also adopted a resolution proclaiming 11 July as World Horse Day. The document, voted in favor by 169 members and opposed by only one, the United States, encourages Member States to observe the day annually. Acti
vities are aimed at raising awareness about the economic and social importance of horses and the equine industry.
Introducing the draft, the representative of Mongolia highlighted the historical significance of horses in transportation, agriculture, and other fields, while noting a decline in horse populations due to modern challenges. The United States expressed concern over references to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, viewing it as an infringement on State sovereignty.
In another significant vote, the Assembly adopted a resolution concerning the status of internally displaced persons and refugees from Abkhazia, Georgia, and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, Georgia. The resolution passed with 107 votes in favor, nine against, and 49 abstentions. It affirms the right of return for displaced persons and stresses the need to respect their property rights.
Georgia’s representative emphasized the humanitarian focus of the resolution, addressing the plight of those displaced by ethnic cleansin
g and military aggression. The Russian Federation, however, criticized the resolution as political, arguing it obstructs dialogue and peace efforts.
Venezuela and Brazil voiced concerns about the politicization of the Assembly, while Japan and the European Union reiterated the importance of addressing refugee issues within broader peacebuilding activities. The United Kingdom and Canada expressed support for Georgia’s sovereignty and criticized Russian actions in the region.
The Assembly’s discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by displaced persons and the broader geopolitical tensions influencing these humanitarian issues.