Trinidad and Tobago has been elected to serve as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term, securing overwhelming international support in a significant diplomatic achievement that returns the twin-island republic to the world’s most influential security body after more than two decades.
During elections held at United Nations Headquarters in New York on Wednesday, Trinidad and Tobago received 181 votes from the 190 member states that participated, comfortably exceeding the two-thirds majority required for election.
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The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs hailed the result as a major diplomatic victory, noting that the successful campaign was launched during the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025 and was supported by extensive engagement with governments and international partners across multiple regions.
Government officials said the outcome reflects global confidence in Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to multilateralism, international cooperation, and the promotion of peace and security.
Campaigning under the theme, “Building Consensus for the Realization of Sustainable Peace and Security,” Trinidad and Tobago focused its bid on three key priorities: combating the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons, advancing the role and protection of women and children in peace and security initiatives, and addressing the growing implications of artificial intelligence for global security.
The United Nations Security Council is charged with maintaining international peace and security and possesses the authority to adopt binding resolutions on matters including armed conflicts, sanctions, peacekeeping operations, counterterrorism efforts, and humanitarian emergencies.
As a non-permanent member, Trinidad and Tobago will participate directly in Security Council deliberations and hold voting rights on resolutions addressing some of the world’s most pressing geopolitical and security challenges.
Government representatives said the seat will provide an important platform for advocating on behalf of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and other developing nations whose perspectives are often underrepresented in global decision-making forums.
The election marks Trinidad and Tobago’s third term on the Security Council. The country previously served during the 1985–1986 and 2002–2003 terms, earning recognition for its contributions to international diplomacy and multilateral engagement.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration described the victory as evidence of Trinidad and Tobago’s ability to build international consensus and strengthen partnerships across regions and political divides.
The two-year term will officially commence on January 1, 2027, and conclude on December 31, 2028.
With its election secured, Trinidad and Tobago is expected to begin preparations for its return to the 15-member Security Council, where it will help shape international responses to conflicts, humanitarian crises, emerging security threats, and global peacebuilding efforts.
The Government also expressed confidence that its presence on the Council will elevate the voice of the Caribbean on the international stage while reinforcing the region’s commitment to diplomacy, cooperation, and sustainable global security.
