The Fourth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly, dedicated to special political and decolonization matters, has appointed Senegal’s Ambassador Coly Seck to preside over the 81st session commencing this September.
This historic appointment was confirmed during a New York meeting on June 2, 2026, following the 85th plenary session of the 80th General Assembly. Delegations also elected leaders for the six main committees to guide the upcoming 81st session.
Senegal’s diplomatic leadership recognized
In an official statement released by Senegal’s Permanent Mission to the UN, Ambassador Seck expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by member states and the Fourth Committee’s bureau. He emphasized his commitment to advancing the UN’s core objectives during the 81st session, highlighting the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Key responsibilities of the Fourth Committee
The Fourth Committee oversees critical global issues, including:
- Ongoing decolonization processes
- Effects of ionizing radiation
- Information policy frameworks
- Peacekeeping operations and special political missions
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA)
- Israeli practices in occupied territories and their impact on Palestinian rights
- International cooperation in peaceful space exploration
Global context and UN priorities
Ambassador Seck takes the helm as the UN prepares for a pivotal 81st session in September 2026. The session unfolds amid growing calls from member states to reinforce multilateralism, enhance organizational efficiency, and prioritize international peace and security.
During the same session, Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh was elected President of the 81st General Assembly. In his remarks, he underscored the UN’s mounting challenges, including escalating conflicts, shrinking humanitarian space, human rights setbacks, development delays, and financial constraints.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed these concerns, affirming that the 81st session presents both formidable challenges and unprecedented opportunities. “The relentless efforts in diplomacy, dialogue, and collaboration within the Assembly renew my hope,” he stated, stressing the UN’s potential to turn divisions into collective action.
The Fourth Committee’s leadership team
As President of the Fourth Committee, Ambassador Seck will work alongside a newly elected bureau for the 81st session, including:
- Vice-Presidents Fahad Mohammad Alajm (Kuwait), Deborah Maria Borg (Malta), and Andrei Nicolenco (Moldova)
- Rapporteur Matthew Moxey (Bahamas)
Senegal’s election to this role reflects its active role in multilateral diplomacy and UN peacekeeping efforts. The country currently contributes over 3,000 military and police personnel to UN peacekeeping missions, reinforcing its commitment to global stability.
