At a time of deepening conflict and insecurity across parts of the continent, the partnership between the United Nations and African Union is indispensable: UK

The United Nations and African Union partnership is vital amid rising conflict, terrorism, unconstitutional government changes, external interference, and climate pressures, which are destabilising regions and increasing humanitarian needs. The UK welcomed deeper UN-AU collaboration on peace and security, including upcoming AU Peace and Security Council meetings in New York, to enhance early risk identification, prevention, and mediation efforts. The UK is backing this partnership through £25 million in funding for AU mediation and inclusive transition support, alongside advocating for permanent African representation in the UN Security Council.

In Somalia, the UK provided £16.5 million to AUSSOM and £8.5 million to a UN trust fund, supporting AU forces and logistical aid for Somali security forces to sustain stability gains during the security transition. In Sudan, coordination through the Quintet is advancing an inclusive political process, while UN-AU fact-finding missions are improving accountability and reducing duplication in efforts.

In northern Ethiopia and eastern DRC, close UN-AU cooperation is essential to address escalating violence, with AU mediation and UN peacekeeping efforts complementing regional and international processes. Joint initiatives also focus on climate security, women’s participation, security sector reform, disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration, and counter-terrorism across the continent.

The UK highlighted its support for UN Security Council resolution 2719, which created a framework for UN assistance to AU-led peace operations, urging continued progress to ensure readiness, oversight, and compliance with human rights and financial standards.