Zambia has won a seat on the UN Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term. The country received 177 votes during an election at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday.
Zambia secured 177 votes out of 181 valid ballots. It received more votes than any other candidate in the election.
According to Africanews, Zambia will begin its three-year term on January 1, 2027.
Zambia receives strong support at UN
President Hakainde Hichilema welcomed the election result and thanked UN member states for their support.
He described the outcome as a sign of confidence in Zambia’s commitment to human rights.
However, Hichilema said the country’s success would depend on the lives of its citizens.
He also stressed the importance of representing Africa in global human rights discussions.
As a result, Zambia will have a greater role in international debates about human rights protection.
Four African countries win council seats
Zambia was not the only African country to secure a seat.
Burundi, Ghana and Nigeria also won places on the UN Human Rights Council.
Meanwhile, 12 other countries secured seats in the same election.
They include Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Ireland, Japan and Jordan.
Kuwait, Moldova, Nepal, Ukraine and Uruguay also won seats.
All 16 new members will begin their terms in January 2027.
What does the UN Human Rights Council do?
The UN established the Human Rights Council in 2006.
Today, the council has 47 members. Its main role is to promote and protect human rights around the world.
For example, the council examines reports of human rights violations.
It also reviews the human rights records of UN member states.
In addition, the council holds discussions on major human rights concerns.
The UN General Assembly elects members through secret ballots. Each member serves a three-year term.
Zambia prepares for new UN role
Zambia will officially join the council on January 1, 2027.
During its term, the country will take part in discussions and decisions on global human rights issues.
Moreover, Zambia will have an opportunity to raise concerns affecting African countries.
Hichilema has already stressed that the country’s performance should also benefit people at home.
Therefore, Zambia’s upcoming membership will bring both international responsibilities and expectations for progress on human rights.