The Tangiers Declaration: the African Union's push for peace and development

The African Union's Peace and Security Council has taken an important step towards promoting peace, security and development in Africa by endorsing the implementation of the Tangier Declaration.  

As reported by Morocco World News, the declaration, which aims to strengthen the links between peace, security and development on the continent, received renewed attention during a recent ministerial meeting in Addis Ababa. The Council's call for action urges the African Union Commission and its partners to work actively to achieve the objectives set out in the Tangiers Declaration.   

Initially formulated during the First Strategic Conference of the African Union, the Tangiers Declaration was part of Resolution 842 adopted during the 36th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union. The Council underlines the importance of the Office of the African Union Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security in this implementation.  

This office played a crucial role in mainstreaming the conclusions of the ministerial meeting on the "Intersection of Climate Change Challenges and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda in Africa", emphasising the role of women in addressing the challenges of climate change and security. 

Recognising the multifaceted threats facing Africa, such as climate change, armed conflict and natural disasters, the Council strongly condemns terrorist attacks on communities and security forces. It stresses the need to protect lives, property and livelihoods and to strengthen resilience to the effects of these crises.  

The Council also underlines the urgency of working together to counter threats to peace, security and development, including extremism, terrorism, armed conflict, security challenges arising from climate change and incitement to hatred. 

The Council's call for action emphasises comprehensive strategies that address both the root causes of conflict and broader security threats. This approach recognises the intrinsic link between socio-economic development and the maintenance of peace and security in the region.  

By advocating collaboration between the African Union Commission, partners and stakeholders, the Council underlines the collective determination to overcome challenges and create a more interconnected and resilient continent.