1. The African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) and the Members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held their eighteenth (18th) Annual Joint Consultative Meeting at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, United States of America, on 18 October 2024. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC, convened to deliberate on peace and security issues.
2. The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC underlined that Article 24 of the Charter of the United Nations accords the UNSC with the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Furthermore, they reaffirmed the mandate of the AUPSC concerning the promotion of peace, security and stability in Africa, as per the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union.
3. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC recalled the provisions of Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations on the role of regional arrangements in dealing with matters relating to the maintenance of international peace and security before referring them to the Security Council, as appropriate, and the UNSC’s authority to utilize such regional arrangements, consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN.
4. On 17 October 2024, the AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC held the 9th Annual Joint Informal Seminar to exchange views on the operationalization of working methods between the AU PSC and the UNSC, the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023) on financing AU-led Peace Support Operations (PSOs) and further deliberated on issues of Youth, Women, Peace and Security, Children Affected by Armed Conflicts, and the adverse effects of Climate Change on the Stability and Development in Africa. The Joint Informal Meeting was preceded by preparatory consultations of the Peace and Security Council Committee of Experts, and the Ad Hoc Working Group of the Security Council on Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa, held in New York from 11 to 16 October 2024.
5. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC recognized the African Union Peace and Security Council’s contributions to the maintenance of international peace and security on the continent and in promoting effective global governance through the implementation of the AU Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and the AU Governance Architecture (AGA), that is premised in the interlinkage between political, security, development, humanitarian, human rights and rule of law activities.
6. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC reaffirmed that development, human rights and peace and security are interlinked and mutually reinforcing and underscored the relationship between the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the AU’s Agenda 2063, acknowledging the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to sustaining peace.
7. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC reaffirmed the significant contributions of AU led PSOs and UN Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) in maintaining regional and continental peace and security in a context specific manner, highlighting the AU-led PSOs expertise in peace enforcement. They expressed grave concern over the evolving security situation with myriad threats to peace, security, and stability on the African Continent and noted with concern the persistent financial challenges being faced by the AU-led PSOs, which negatively impact the effective implementation of their mandate. They underscored the importance of adequate, predictable and sustainable financing for AU-led PSOs, including the use of UN-assessed contributions, in line with UNSC resolution 2719 (2023). They stressed the need to enhance the effectiveness of the UN and AU in promoting comprehensive solutions to the security challenges facing the African continent. They outlined the importance of close coordination with host states at the preparation, implementation and withdrawal stages including on an exit strategy, and stressed the need to enhance the effectiveness of the UN and the AU in promoting comprehensive solutions to peace and security challenges facing the African continent.
8. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC welcomed AU efforts to enhance early response mechanisms, including preventive action and early warning, as well as the deployment of regional forces, mandated by the AU PSC and authorized by the UNSC, to respond to armed conflicts. They also welcomed the support already provided to these efforts by international partners, such as the EU and others, and encouraged the international community to continue lending the requisite support. They paid tribute to the Troop- and Police-Contributing Countries for their sacrifices and commitment towards promoting peace and stability and therefore impacting development, as well as the troops who have paid the ultimate price in service to humanity. )
9. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC commended the youth, including young women, for their vital role at national, regional, continental and global levels in the prevention and resolution of conflict and violence, the promotion of peace, security, stability and socio-economic development and efforts towards building foundations for peaceful societies. They underlined the need to further promote the participation of youth, including within civil society organizations and political parties, to facilitate greater inclusion in decision-making processes and enable the youth to be co-creators of bold and innovative solutions to challenges that face them and promote the role of youth through concrete actions. They further underlined the need to invest in the youth trough capacity building, mentorship, education, vocational training, employment and socio-economic development initiatives that empower young people to actively carry out their roles in advancing peace, security, and stability.
10. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC called upon all states to implement UN Security Council Resolutions 2250 (2015), 2419 (2018), 2535 (2020), and as appropriate the AU Continental Framework on Youth, Peace and Security of 2018 and encouraged Member States, as well as regional and subregional organizations, to develop and implement policies and programs for youth, and to facilitate their constructive engagement, including through dedicated local, national, and regional roadmaps on youth, peace, and security.
11. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC welcomed the contribution of women in the promotion of peace and security and their active and effective participation in peacemaking, peacebuilding, including in conflict prevention and resolution, mediation and in peace operations, at the local, national, continental and global levels.
12. They committed to strengthen the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women in peace processes, including preventive diplomacy, mediation and conflict management, in post-conflict reconstruction and development as well as electoral processes; They welcomed the inclusion of a dedicated pillar on the role of women, peace and security in the efforts of post-conflict reconstruction and development in the Revised AU Policy on Post-Conflict, Reconstruction and Development (PCRD Policy). They commended the Network of African Women in Conflict Prevention and Mediation (FemWise-Africa) as a vital and critical pillar of the Peace and Security Architecture of the AU and called upon all Member States to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) and all its subsequent resolutions on Women Peace and Security and Peace and Security Council decisions on women, peace and security, as appropriate.
13. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC expressed deep concern over the increased vulnerability of children and urged all parties to armed conflict to end and prevent all six grave violations against children, and to comply with their obligations under international law, in particular to respect the rights of the child, including the right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, and to education. They condemned in the strongest terms the continued recruitment and use of children on the continent by belligerents to an armed conflict, including non-state armed groups, as well as terrorist organizations. They emphasized the need for all states to hold all perpetrators of violations and abuses against children accountable, without undue delay.
14. They reaffirmed the right to education and its contribution to the achievement of peace and security, and expressed concern over the continued increase in attacks on schools, school closures and threats of attacks in situations of armed conflict, resulting in an alarming number of children being denied the enjoyment of their right to education and ultimately impacting states’ sustainable development aspirations. They committed to prioritizing the development and implementation of comprehensive conflict-sensitive and crisis-resilient education policy frameworks that promote quality education for all children and youth regardless of their background or circumstances. They welcomed the AU theme of the year 2024 “Educate an African, fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality and relevant learning in Africa”, and in this regard, underscored the need to promote safe schools and education in conflict situations in Africa.
15. The PSC and Members of the UNSC underscored the importance of psycho-social support, including post-trauma support, to children and educators affected by conflict, including integrating health services into educational programmes and implementing targeted measures to ensure the safety of children, such as safe school routes and safe learning environments.
16. They reiterated their strong condemnation of attacks as well as threats of attacks against schools, children, teachers, and other persons entitled to protection who are connected to schools, in contravention of applicable international law. They encouraged Member States to invest in education, recognizing its importance in preventing the recruitment and use of children, and in the successful reintegration of children formerly associated with armed forces and armed groups. They emphasized the need for mainstreaming child protection into disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) processes to establish an environment that prioritizes children’s needs and ensures equal access to such programmes.
17. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC recognized that Africa is one of the regions that contribute the least to climate change yet is extremely vulnerable to its adverse effects.
18. They further recognized the adverse effects of climate change, ecological changes and natural disasters, including through floods, drought, desertification, land degradation, as well as their exacerbating effects on food security, and on other humanitarian, social and economic challenges, which impact the stability of the African continent. They stressed the need for long-term strategies, based on comprehensive risk assessments by governments and the United Nations, to support stabilization and build resilience, and encouraged relevant UN and AU bodies, to continue to integrate this information, as appropriate, in their activities. They took note of efforts to develop region-specific approaches and initiatives towards comprehensive risk assessments, climate adaptation, mitigation and resilience. They encouraged continued advocacy for efforts, to scale up international action and support, through inter alia, humanitarian and development action, resource mobilization and capacity-building, including on clean, sustainable, affordable, reliable, just and inclusive energy transitions, and energy efficiency in line with existing commitments in order to enhance the adaptation and mitigation capacity of countries from the region and to reduce their vulnerability to climate change. In this regard, they recognized the request by African States for the transfer and deployment of technology on mutually agreed terms to address these pressing needs. They also acknowledged the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement as the primary international, intergovernmental forums for negotiating the global response to climate change.
19. The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC commended the AU’s endorsement of the revised Policy on Post-Conflict, Reconstruction and Development (AUPCRD Policy) by the AU Assembly in February 2024.
20. The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC recalled the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023) on the financing of AU-led Peace Support Operations authorized by the Security Council on a case-by-case basis and took note of the update by the Secretary General on the implementation of this framework resolution. They encouraged the Secretary-General and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, to advance the implementation of this framework resolution.
21. They lauded the critical role of the A3 penholdership in drafting this resolution and emphasized the importance of the consultative approach between the AU Commission and the UN Secretariat in identifying the steps necessary to ensure that both systems are responsive to UNSCR 2719 (2023), including through the establishment of the UN-AU Joint Task Team on the Operationalization of Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023). Also recognized the development of a Joint Roadmap, which outlines the way forward, including the detailed modalities and steps required to activate and operationalize UNSCR 2719 (2023) effectively and procedures to mobilize funding not provided by United Nations assessed contributions.
22. The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC re-committed to continue operationalizing and improving their joint working methods, particularly through structured monthly coordination meetings between the Chair of the AUPSC and the President of the UNSC. They also agreed to continue to explore the possibility of undertaking joint field and assessment missions, with modalities of such missions being determined on a case-by-case basis. They expressed support in promoting the interactive nature of the annual joint informal seminar, including through the format of a retreat to deepen the dialogue, cooperation and trust among both Councils. They welcomed the proposal of to explore an informal mechanism to review the implementation of the previous Joint Communiqués of the annual consultations between the AUPSC and UNSC and agreed to continue discussing its implementation.
23. On the occasion of the 18th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting, the AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC held discussions on the situations in Sudan; the situation in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, including countering the threat of terrorism; the Situation in Somalia and the Post-ATMIS Security Arrangements; the situation in the Great Lakes Region: the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC); and on the situation in Central African Republic (CAR). The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence and unity of Member States.
On the situation in Sudan
The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC:
24. Expressed deep concern over the ongoing armed conflict between the warring parties, namely the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan marked by widespread reports of indiscriminate attacks on the civilian population, including through the use of force in populated areas, widespread and systemic sexual and gender-based violence and six grave violations against children. Expressed strong concern over the spreading violence, including reports of ethnically motivated violence, particularly, the violence perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces in and around El Fasher, in North Darfur and in El Geneina in West Darfur.
25. Condemned the proliferation of weapons, looting of humanitarian supplies, attacks against humanitarian personnel, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, and in this regard expressed deep concern over the continued violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law in Sudan and the heavy toll on civilians, and called for accountability for these violations. Reminded all parties to the conflict in Darfur, to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law and reiterated that those who commit violations of international humanitarian law and other atrocities may be subject to targeted UNSC sanctions measures in accordance with paragraph 3 (c) of resolution 1591 (2005).
26. Emphasized that there is no military solution to the conflict in Sudan and called on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and establish a permanent ceasefire and to return to negotiations followed by an inclusive national dialogue and political transition, in order to end the suffering of the Sudanese people. Demanded that the RSF lift the siege of El Fasher. Further called on all warring parties to fully comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, particularly concerning the protection of civilians and the safety of humanitarian, medical personnel, UN and associated personnel, including national and locally recruited personnel and their means of transport. Underscored their commitment to the protection of civilians and noting the UN’s and AU’s work to that end. Welcomed in that respect the AUPSC’s recommendation to support the AU High Level Panel on Sudan and the AUPSC Presidential Ad Hoc Committee to enhance engagement with relevant stakeholders on the implementation of the AU roadmap including protection of civilians as one of its key pillars.
27. Expressed extreme grave concern over the dire and deteriorating humanitarian situation across Sudan, including reports of food insecurity at the most acute levels and the risk of it spreading across further parts of the country. Further expressed concern over the occupation of homes and forced displacement of owners. Commended neighboring countries for hosting refugees fleeing the conflict. Welcomed the disbursement of around 90% of the funds pledged during the Paris conference on Sudan and neighboring countries convened in April 2024 and appealed to the international community to expedite the remaining funds and urgently step-up contributions to enable the scaling-up of humanitarian assistance needed to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Sudan and in the region. Commended all initiatives seeking to pledge funds and advance actions on humanitarian aid and civilian protection, including the coordinated efforts in Paris, Geneva, Jeddah, other conferences, and bilateral assistance that have significantly increased funding for the humanitarian response plan. To this end, urged the UN agencies, international partners and Member States in a position to do so, to scale up humanitarian assistance to Sudan, in accordance with the national humanitarian response plan.
28. Called for the full implementation of the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan, and called on the parties to take further steps to allow and facilitate, in a manner consistent with relevant provisions of international law and with United Nations guiding principles of humanitarian assistance, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence, safe and unhindered humanitarian access into and throughout Sudan. In this regard, welcomed the reopening of the Adre border crossing from Chad into North Darfur and the commitments to allow humanitarian aid through Dabbah and stressed the need to sustain these measures, to allow the safe and unhindered delivery of much-needed humanitarian assistance. Also called on all parties to communicate and coordinate with humanitarian and local partners to ensure that humanitarian assistance safely reaches those in need and underlined the obligation of all parties to the conflict to respect and protect humanitarian personnel.
29. Reaffirmed the necessity for inclusivity and participation of all Sudanese stakeholders in the political process, including the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women and youth, as well as civil society, ensuring a genuine and comprehensive Sudanese-led and Sudanese-owned political process that reflects the true aspirations of the Sudanese people.
30. Took note of all regional and international initiatives to promote peace, including the AU Roadmap for the resolution of the conflict in Sudan as part of the broader goal of silencing the guns in Sudan, stressed the importance of further enhancing collaboration and coordination of all mediation and peace efforts to ensure coherence. Affirmed the central role of the African Union through the High-Level Panel on Sudan and IGAD through the Special Envoy on Sudan, in coordination with the neighboring countries and international efforts to find a lasting solution under the AU Roadmap for the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of Sudan. In the same vein strongly urged all actors to ensure that their peace efforts are complementary and coordinated with the AU and its Roadmap.
31. Welcomed the engagements of the AU High-Level Panel and IGAD, the neighboring countries, including through the convening of the inaugural and second Preparatory Meeting of the Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue, in preparation for an all-inclusive political dialogue. Welcomed the work of the SG’s Personal Envoy for the Sudan and encouraged the Personal Envoy to use his good offices with the parties and the neighboring states, complementing regional peace efforts. In addition, commended the convening of the Proximity Talks in Geneva, Switzerland, and mediators planning retreat in Djibouti and the Sudan political groups conference held in Cairo and emphasized the need for enhanced coordination of all peace efforts.
32. Called on all Member States to refrain from external interference which seeks to foment conflict and instability and instead to support efforts for a durable peace. Strongly condemned such interference by state and non-state actors in Sudan, and reminded all parties to the conflict and Member States who facilitate the transfers of arms and military material to Darfur of their obligations to comply with the arms embargo measures as stipulated in paragraphs 7 and 8 of UN Security Council Resolution 1556 (2004) and AUPSC relevant decisions, as applicable and reiterates that those who violate the arms embargo may be designated for targeted measures in accordance with paragraph 3 (c) of UN Security Council Resolution 1591 (2005).
33. Welcomed the establishment of the PSC Presidential Ad Hoc Committee on Sudan, and called upon all stakeholders to cooperate with and provide their support to the Committee in executing its mandate and looked forward to the Inaugural Meeting of the PSC Presidential Ad Hoc Committee.
34. Also welcomed the AUPSC solidarity field mission to Port Sudan conducted on 3 October 2024 and took note of its adopted recommendations.
35. Reiterated their strong commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Sudan.
On the situation in the Sahel Region and the Lake Chad Basin Region, including countering the threat of terrorism
The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC:
36. Acknowledged the challenging security situation in the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin region, marked by armed conflicts, the spread of terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism, transnational organized crime and the intensification of intercommunal violence.
37. Strongly condemned all terrorist attacks, particularly those targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, such as schools, hospitals, representatives from local, regional and State institutions, as well as humanitarian, educational and medical personnel.
38. Underscored the importance of all actors respecting international humanitarian law and international human rights law and expressed the need for accountability for any violations and underlined the importance of sustained efforts to comprehensively address the underlying conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism, and the factors enabling it to thrive, by ensuring national recovery and reconstruction, enhancing good governance and human rights, preventing illicit trade in and proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons and facilitating sustainable socio-economic development in Africa, while remaining in full compliance with their obligations under international law.
39. Emphasized the importance of peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction and development to the countries emerging from conflict situations, especially in the Sahel region and the Lake Chad Basin; and welcomed the efforts of the AU Center for Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD Centre) to develop programmes to support building strong and resilient state institutions; and encouraged partners and stakeholders to invest and provide the necessary support for implementing such programmes.
40. Also emphasized the need to pursue a multidimensional approach to address the structural root causes and drivers of insecurity in the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin region, including through the promotion of good governance, constitutionalism, sustainable development, human rights, adherence to the rule of law and democracy as well as building just, inclusive and resilient societies. Underscored the importance of the nexus between peace, security and socio-economic development, and the prevention of the illicit flow of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) into the region. Further underlined the importance of enhancing international cooperation to prevent, trace, recover, and return proceeds of illicit financial flows. Also underscored the need to enhance cooperation in providing requisite capacity for countries in the region to enable them to curb the illicit flow of SALW.
41. Underscored the importance of achieving international peace and security and the need for enhanced coordination, collaboration, transparency and complementarity of collective efforts by countries in the region, including through the promotion of dialogue, information and intelligence sharing and by conducting joint operations, in order to reinforce the overall response to the threat of terrorism, and in this regard, welcomed the High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting, held under the theme “Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Institutional Building to Address the Evolving Threats of Terrorism in Africa”, held from 22 to 23 April 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria and took note of the Declaration. Called for international cooperation to mitigate the impact of external tensions and security risks in order to strengthen counter terrorism efforts in the region.
42. Expressed serious concern over the unconstitutional changes of government and attempted coup d’états. In this regard, underscored the importance of the implementation of nationally-owned transition processes, including the holding of elections and restoration of constitutional order in the concerned countries.
43. Expressed deep concern about the worsening humanitarian situation across the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin region, driven by armed conflicts, climate change and various socio-economic challenges, resulting inter alia in forced displacement, extreme poverty, food insecurity, water scarcity, poor water quality, floods, droughts, desertification and land degradation. Recalled the need for the full, safe, rapid and unhindered access for the delivery of humanitarian aid to all persons in need, and recalled the UN guiding principles of humanitarian emergency assistance and humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. Further condemned all forms of violence and threats against humanitarian personnel and medical personnel, and encouraged efforts by States in the region to ensure that perpetrators of such acts are brought to justice, as provided for by national laws and consistent with their obligations under international law.
44. Acknowledged the termination of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) on 31 December 2023 and reiterated their deep appreciation to UN personnel as well as troop and police contributing countries for their dedication in implementing the mission’s mandate under very challenging circumstances. Also noted the cancellation of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement in Mali.[1]
45. Paid tribute to the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Troop and Police Contributing Countries of the MNJTF for their commitment in the fight against the Boko Haram terrorist group to restabilize the region and restore sustainable peace and security in the Lake Chad Basin. Welcomed the progress made in the implementation of the Regional Strategy for the Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience of the Lake Chad Basin of the Boko Haram Affected Areas. Appealed to all stakeholders, including the partners, for them to continue to provide enhanced support to the MNJTF and the Lake Chad Basin Commission and in this regard, welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United Nations Development Programme and Lake Chad Basin Commission governing the modalities for sustained financial support for enhanced coordination of the implementation of the Regional Strategy for the Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience of the Lake Chad Basin of the Boko Haram Affected Areas.
46. Encouraged continued close and effective cooperation between the AU, UN (including UNOWAS, the Peacebuilding Commission, UN Country Offices) and sub-regional organizations and mechanisms in support of sustainable peace, security and development in West Africa and the Sahel.
On the situation in Somalia and the Post- ATMIS Security Arrangements
The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC:
47. Commended the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) for the progress achieved in the stabilization and reconciliation processes in the country. Underscored the importance of consolidating the peace and security gains made in Somalia and reiterated their commitment to supporting national and regional efforts to degrade Al-Shabaab and to reduce the threat posed by the terrorist group. Expressed grave concern over the loss of life, destruction of property, and provocations and incitement to violence by the Al Shabaab terrorist group against ATMIS and Somali Security Forces. Paid tribute to all ATMIS Troop- and Police Contributing Countries for their continued commitment and sacrifices during peace enforcement and creating peace, security and stability in the country.
48. Reaffirmed the strong commitment and support for preserving the unity, territorial integrity, independence, and sovereignty of Somalia.
49. Recognized that military action alone will not be sufficient to resolve the threats to peace and security in Somalia. Strongly encouraged the FGS to consider multidimensional approaches to addressing the structural root causes and drivers of conflict and instability in the country and underlined that the protection of civilians is critical to building sustainable peace.
50. Reiterated the need to continue providing support for the stabilization and security of Somalia, enabling state-building priorities and ensuring coherent and orderly transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali authorities and increasingly capable security force, and in this regard, urged partners and stakeholders to invest and provide the necessary support to facilitate the implementation of post-conflict, reconstruction and development programmes.
51. Underlined the need to enhance the predictability, sustainability, and flexibility of financing for African-Union-led Peace support operations, authorized by the Security Council, and under the Security Council’s authority, consistent with Chapter VIII of the Charter and encouraged the Secretary General, African Union and Member States to continue efforts to explore in earnest funding arrangements for ATMIS until its planned exit by 31 December 2024.
52. Noted Security Council Resolution 2748 (2024) and PSC Communiqué PSC/PR/COMM.1225(2024), underlined the importance for the AU Commission and the UN Secretariat to undertake the necessary consultations, stressed the importance of its request for the UN Secretary-General, jointly with the African Union Commission Chairperson and in consultation with the Federal Government of Somalia, and international stakeholders, to report on the overall mission design for the proposed ATMIS successor mission - the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) - to be authorized prior to its deployment following the termination of ATMIS on 31 December 2024. Recalled the request for a range of options for financing it, including but not limited to support by international partners, by the framework established by resolution 2719, other suitable alternatives, or some combination of these options, by 15 November 2024. Noted the call for diversification of support by international partners, including traditional and new donors, in order to guarantee financial stability for the mission and to ensure the effective implementation of its mandate.
53. Welcomed Somalia’s election as a member of the UN Security Council for the 2025-26 term and pledged their support for its efforts to address and overcome peace and security challenges.
On the situation in the Great Lakes Region: The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC:
54. Expressed deep concern over the prevailing insecurity and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in eastern DRC due to persistent violence and human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law, including by the resurgent March 23 Movement (M23), the Coopérative pour le développement du Congo (CODECO), the Allied Democratic Forces(ADF), the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR), the Résistance pour un état de droit (RED-Tabara), Mai-Mai groups and all other domestic and foreign non-state armed groups. Urged that those implicated in human rights abuses and violations are held accountable.
55. Strongly condemned foreign military support provided to M23 and any other armed group operating in eastern DRC and demanded the immediate cessation of such support and the immediate withdrawal of any such external party from the entire Congolese territory. Further condemned support provided by military forces to specific armed groups, in particular the FDLR, and demanded the immediate cessation of such support. Urged that all armed groups, particularly the M23, ADF and FDLR, operating in eastern DRC immediately cease all forms of violence; permanently disband and lay down their arms.
56. Also strongly condemned any illegal activities in the DRC supported by state and non-state entities with the intent to undermine democratically established institutions through unconstitutional changes of government, as prohibited by various AU Instruments, in particular the AU Constitutive Act, Malabo Declaration of 2022 and Accra Declarations of 2022 and 2024.
57. Called for all Congolese armed groups to participate in the Demobilization, Disarmament, Community Recovery and Stabilization Program (P-DDRCS) and to engage unconditionally in the intra-Congolese dialogue and called on the UN and international partners to continue providing the necessary support for the efficient implementation of the P-DDRCS programme.
58. Condemned in the strongest terms any and all attacks against the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) peacekeepers, personnel, installations, material, units or vehicles, which may constitute war crimes, as well as the use and placement of heavy weapons in the vicinity of United Nations peacekeepers’ bases, emphasizing that those responsible for such attacks must be held accountable. Called for all parties to allow MONUSCO freedom of movement to carry out its operations.
59. Welcomed the efforts by the DRC, neighboring countries, and the wider region towards the stability of the eastern DRC and the Great Lakes region, building on the commitments under the 2013 Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and the region, as well as the Luanda and Nairobi Processes, and called on all parties to fully implement all the commitments made in this context. Underscored that the challenges facing the Great Lakes Region cannot be resolved by military means alone, and stressed the need for continued political processes to address the root causes of conflict in the region, while respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC.
60. Further welcomed the ceasefire agreement signed by the DRC and Rwanda on 30 July 2024 mediated by Angola, as well as the decision to operationalize the FDLR neutralization plan and to develop a disengagement plan for their forces and urged all parties to the conflict to respect the agreement. Further welcomed the outcome of the inaugural Quadripartite Summit of the East African Community (EAC), Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), held under the auspices of the AU in Luanda, Angola, on 27 June 2023. In this regard, took note of the adoption of the “Joint Framework on Coordination and Harmonization of Peace Initiatives in Eastern DRC by the EAC, ECCAS, ICGLR, SADC and the United Nations, under the auspices of the AU” aimed at promoting coherence of peace initiatives and delineating responsibilities and establishing agreed timelines. Encouraged further political engagement of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General to MONUSCO and Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes region in support of these efforts.
61. Recognized the linkage between the illegal exploitation of natural resources, illicit trade in such resources, and the proliferation and trafficking of arms as one of the major factors fuelling and exacerbating conflict in eastern DRC, condemned the illegal exploitation of natural resources in eastern DRC and called on all concerned entities to stop this practice and strengthen existing control mechanisms.
62. Took note of the letter from the Government of DRC dated 28 June 2024 addressed to the UN Security Council Presidency, transmitting the joint report on the first phase of the withdrawal of MONUSCO and acknowledged the completion of the MONUSCO’s withdrawal of all uniformed personnel and most civilian personnel from South Kivu, and stressed the importance of planning the next steps of the gradual, responsible and sustainable withdrawal on the mission, building on lessons learned from the first phase, including through accelerated security sector reform under strong national ownership.
63. Welcomed the authorization of specified logistical and operational support from MONUSCO to SAMIDRC, as stipulated in Security Council resolution 2746 (2024), noted that the full operationalization of SAMIDRC and its support in creating a secure environment and protecting civilians is aimed at contributing to the stability of eastern DRC and to creating an environment conducive to the successful implementation of ongoing regional peace efforts.
64. Strongly condemned all attacks against civilians and emphasized the need to ensure their protection. Further emphasized the importance of sustained international humanitarian assistance to civilians, including internally displaced persons, refugees, persons affected by food insecurity and any other population in need. Urged all parties to allow and facilitate, in a manner consistent with relevant provisions of international humanitarian law full, safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to all civilians in need, especially women and children, recalled the UN guiding principles of humanitarian emergency assistance and humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. Further urged Members States, in a position to do so, the UN agencies and other international partners to support stabilization, reconstruction, and recovery efforts in conflict-affected regions.
On the situation in Central African Republic (CAR):
The AUPSC and the Members of the UNSC:
65. Underlined the progress made in restoring State authority across the Central African Republic (CAR), with the support of MINUSCA, and welcomed the progress made in the implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic (APPR-CAR). Reaffirmed that the implementation of the APPR and the Luanda Roadmap remain the only viable mechanisms for achieving lasting peace and stability in the CAR and noted the crucial need to support national efforts to extend State authority and the reform of the security sector, which are essential for ensuring security and justice for all, through the establishment of independent, accountable and functioning justice and security institutions, which take into account women’s full, equal meaningful and safe participation, as well as capacity building of security institutions in the CAR to assume full responsibility of its security.
66. Encouraged the Government of CAR and all political stakeholders to invest more in confidence-building measures, particularly by keeping the channels of communication open and creating a conducive environment for the successful organization of free and fair local government elections, currently scheduled for 2025, to be carried out in an inclusive, transparent, credible, and peaceful manner. In this context, called upon the international community to support the Government of CAR to mobilize the required resources.
67. Recognized the persistent security challenges in the CAR and underlined that ongoing violence by armed groups continues to pose a threat to the security situation and political stability in the country, condemned in this regard all attacks on civilians, peacekeepers, UN personnel, national security and defence forces, and humanitarian actors. Urged all armed groups to cease immediately all forms of violence and all the signatories to the APPR to respect their commitments in full. Emphasized that active and close collaboration between the CAR and neighboring countries is essential to secure its borders and other entry points to prevent the cross-border flows of armed combatants, arms and conflict minerals and encouraged international partners to support collaboration between the CAR and neighboring countries for improving border surveillance.
68. Strongly urged the Coalition des Patriotes pour le Changement and all remaining armed groups to end all hostilities throughout the territory of the Central African Republic, commit to the peace and reconciliation process and comply fully with the DDR process.
69. Stressed the urgent and imperative need to end impunity in the CAR, noted the ongoing work of the Special Criminal Court, welcomed the first final judgement of the appeals chamber of the Special Criminal Court for crimes against humanity and war crimes, and called on the CAR Government to swiftly investigate allegations of crimes and to bring to justice those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and of violations and abuses of human rights.
70. Noted with concern the humanitarian situation in the CAR which is being exacerbated by the conflict in Sudan and other crises in the region, which has resulted in an influx of refugees and, in this respect, appealed to the international community to support the efforts of the Government of CAR in addressing the prevailing humanitarian situation, including mobilization of resources.
71. Encouraged the Government of the CAR to take necessary measures to combat the illegal exploitation of the country’s natural resources, particularly mineral resources, and to continue strengthening accountability and transparency in the management and distribution of related Government revenue. Noted that the suspension of diamond export sanctions can facilitate the development of CAR and looked forward to the forthcoming Kimberley Process’ Plenary evaluation of the report of the Kimberley Process review visit to CAR, which took place in September 2024. Stressed the need for enhancing development projects in the CAR with the full involvement and meaningful participation of youth and women and appealed to all international partners for multifaceted financial and logistical support for the CAR Government in order to facilitate the successful implementation of the 2024-2028 National Development Plan (NDP).
Final remarks
72. The AU PSC and the Members of the UNSC agreed to convene their 10th Informal Joint Seminar and the 19th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on dates to be jointly agreed by the two sides in due course, preceded by expert-level informal consultations.
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