By Omonu YG Nelson
New York, NY – November 28, 2023
The United Nations and the African Union (AU) Tuesday, November 28, pledged to strengthen their partnership on peace, security, and sustainable development. The two organizations issued a joint communiqué following the seventh Annual African Union-United Nations Conference held in New York on November 28.
In the communiqué, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressed their deep concern regarding the current international situation and called for a renewed commitment to multilateralism. They also underscored the importance of joint action to address the challenges facing Africa, including conflict, poverty, and climate change.
The communiqué outlined a number of key areas for cooperation between the UN and AU, including:
Peace and security: The two organizations agreed to enhance their cooperation on conflict prevention, peacemaking, peace operations, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. They also pledged to continue working together to address the root causes of conflict in Africa.
Sustainable development: The UN and AU agreed to work together to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063, the African Union’s vision for the continent’s development. They also pledged to support African countries in their efforts to build resilient economies and societies.
Human rights: The two organizations signed a new Joint Framework on Human Rights, which reaffirms their commitment to promoting and protecting human rights in Africa. They also agreed to work together to combat discrimination, violence, and human rights abuses.
The communiqué also highlighted the importance of women’s participation and youth engagement in peace processes, decision-making, and policymaking. The two organizations agreed to work together to empower women and youth in Africa.
The Seventh Annual African Union-United Nations Conference was a success in advancing the partnership between the two organizations. The communiqué issued by the conference outlines a number of important commitments that will strengthen cooperation on peace, security, and sustainable development.
About the African Union
The African Union is a pan-African organization that was founded in 2002. The AU has 55 member states and is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The AU’s mission is to promote peace, security, and sustainable development in Africa.
About the United Nations
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that was founded in 1945. The UN has 193 member states and is headquartered in New York City. The UN’s mission is to maintain international peace and security, promote human rights, and develop friendly relations among nations.