On 23 March, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Special Representative of the Secretary General to the African Union and Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union participated in a dialogue forum marking the International Day of La Francophonie, organized by the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie in collaboration with the African Union and the United Nations Development Programme.
Held under the theme "Génération paix, contribution de la jeunesse pour un monde plus apaisé" (“A generation for peace: youth contributions to a more peaceful world.”), the forum brought together institutions, diplomats and young leaders to explore how youth can contribute more effectively to peace, social cohesion, conflict prevention and democratic governance. Discussions also examined opportunities for strengthened cooperation among the Francophonie, the African Union, the United Nations and other partners on youth, peace and security.
During the opening session, the African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, underscored the central role of youth in advancing peace and security across the continent and called for their meaningful participation in decision making processes.
In his remarks, the SRSG Parfait Onanga-Anyanga highlighted the importance of moving beyond commitments to concrete action, noting that social, political and economic exclusion remain key drivers of instability. He emphasized the need to create more inclusive systems that expand opportunities for youth and women.
Panel discussions called for stronger youth participation in decision making, the use of technology to promote social cohesion and counter misinformation, and increased support to Member States in developing national action plans on youth, peace and security.
