African Union Convenes Roundtable Dialogue on Climate, Peace and Security in Africa

The African Union Commission, with support from the United Nations Office to the African Union, and Australia as incoming COP31 Presidency of Negotiations, convened a Roundtable Dialogue on Climate, Peace and Security in Africa at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa.

The dialogue brought together representatives from the African Union, AU Member States, United Nations entities and Regional Economic Communities to exchange views and strengthen collaboration on climate-related security risks and responses across the continent. The roundtable took place against a backdrop of growing momentum across Africa to elevate climate, peace and security as a strategic continental priority. While African States contribute the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, they continue to bear a disproportionate share of the adverse impacts of climate change, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected contexts.

Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the African Union and Head of UNOAU, underscored that climate shocks and long-term stressors are increasingly shaping peace and security dynamics across Africa, acting as a risk multiplier particularly in fragile and resource-scarce contexts. He welcomed the African Union’s leadership in advancing the Common African Position on Climate, Peace and Security and stressed the importance of sustained UN support to strengthen joint analysis, early warning and policy responses.

The roundtable concluded with a shared recognition of sustaining momentum. Participants underscored the need to continue working collectively to amplify African voices, translate policy commitments into action, and ensure that climate, peace and security remain a central pillar of both continental and global agendas. Read full press release here.