Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – UN Security Council and AU Peace and Security Meeting Opens in Addis Ababa
Since Thursday in Addis Ababa, the peace and security bodies of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) have been engaging in fruitful discussions about the financing of peacekeeping operations carried out under the aegis of the pan-African body.
This high-level meeting, which brings together key stakeholders from both the UN Security Council and AU Peace and Security Council, aims to address the pressing issue of funding for peacekeeping efforts across the African continent. The discussions primarily revolve around the need for sustainable and predictable financing mechanisms, as well as the burden-sharing arrangements between AU member states and the international community.
With conflicts and security challenges persisting in different parts of Africa, it is crucial to ensure that peacekeeping missions receive adequate and timely funding. The availability of financial resources directly impacts the AU’s ability to effectively respond to crises, support peace processes, and protect vulnerable populations.
In his opening remarks, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, who chairs the African Union, emphasized the need for greater cooperation and collaboration between the AU and the UN. He stated, “We must work together to mobilize the necessary resources to fund our own peace priorities and share the burden of maintaining peace in Africa.”
Key stakeholders also emphasized the importance of strengthening the relationship between the AU and the UN, as well as exploring innovative financing mechanisms. These mechanisms could include partnerships with regional financial institutions, exploring innovative funding models, and engaging the private sector.
The Security Council President for the month of October, Ambassador T. S. Tirumurti of India, highlighted the significant role that the UN plays in supporting African-led peace operations. He affirmed, “The United Nations remains committed to supporting the African Union in its efforts to promote peace and security on the continent.”
Civil society organizations and experts in peace and security matters have also been closely following the discussions in Addis Ababa. They stress the importance of moving beyond rhetoric and taking concrete steps to ensure sustainable financing for peacekeeping missions. This includes exploring alternative sources of funding and developing long-term financial planning strategies.
The meeting in Addis Ababa provides a platform for member states, the AU, and the UN to address the challenges and come up with practical solutions for financing peacekeeping operations in Africa. It is a crucial step towards enhancing collaboration, strengthening peace and security efforts, and ultimately building a more peaceful and prosperous continent.
As discussions continue, participants hope to reach consensus on a way forward to ensure sustainable financing for peacekeeping operations across Africa. The outcomes of this meeting will undoubtedly shape the future of peacekeeping efforts on the continent and strengthen the AU-UN partnership in addressing peace and security challenges.
References:
1. Africanews. (2023, October 5). UN Security Council and AU Peace and Security Meeting Opens in Addis Ababa. Retrieved from https://www.africanews.com/2023/10/05/un-security-council-and-au-peace-and-security-meeting-opens-in-addis-ababa/
2. Google Search. (n.d). UN Security Council and AU Peace and Security Meeting Opens in Addis Ababa. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/search?q=UN+security+council+and+AU+peace+and+security+meeting+opens+in+Addis+Ababa
