President Julius Maada Bio delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on 22 September 2026, advocating for urgent global reforms. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s experience with civil war and recovery to address pressing international issues such as war, inequality, climate change, and the decline of trust in global institutions.
Speaking on the theme, “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All,” Bio’s address was just part of Sierra Leone’s broader agenda at the assembly. The delegation also raised topics including Africa’s representation on the Security Council, child marriage, climate change, and investment.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s transition from war to peace nearly 25 years ago, Bio underscored that real peace comes from community reconciliation and institutional rebuilding, with the United Nations playing a key role. He stressed that military action alone cannot ensure lasting peace in the face of poverty and unemployment. Referencing conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, he remarked, “Military action may contain a threat, but it cannot by itself build lasting peace.”
Bio connected development directly to security, calling for more investment in jobs and opportunities, particularly for the youth. He pointed out that global military spending reached approximately $2.9 trillion in 2025 and questioned whether enough resources were allocated to mitigate conflict drivers.
Addressing Africa’s representation in decision-making, Bio argued that the current Security Council framework is outdated, and he advocated for at least two permanent and five non-permanent seats for Africa. During his meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, he received support for enhanced African representation in international institutions.
Bio also discussed how Africa can better utilise its mineral resources for economic growth. He called for local processing of critical minerals vital for the green energy transition, asserting that Africa should not repeat the exploitative practices of the past.
The President further highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment to ending child marriage at a high-profile event on the sidelines of the assembly. He announced plans for a national action plan to eliminate child marriage and align these efforts with broader goals in education and healthcare.
Sierra Leone’s participation at UNGA81 underscored a cohesive message: that peace, development, and equitable representation are interconnected. Bio concluded by stressing that the ideals of “For All” should not just be rhetoric but should lead to tangible progress in global policy decisions affecting peace and development.
