07.10.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC Briefing on UN–AU Cooperation

Thank you, Madam President,

Let me also thank SRSG Onanga-Anyanga, His Excellency Permanent Observer Edrees and ASG Pobee for your comprehensive briefings. Collectively, you have demonstrated the depth of the important partnership between the UN and the AU. Denmark commends your leadership. 

Madam President,

Threats to international peace and security, from terrorism to climate change, from conflict to food insecurity, are disproportionately affecting the African continent. Enhanced cooperation between the UN and the AU is an essential tool in responding to these crises.

Denmark welcomes the continued implementation of the joint roadmap and the Joint UN-AU Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security.

These offer important frameworks for cooperation and, importantly, for action.

Madam President,

In this context, allow me to focus on three key points.

First, Denmark is a firm supporter of the African Union’s leadership in identifying lasting solutions to the conflicts in Africa.

This deserves our collective support and we encourage the AU to be proactive and ambitious in undertaking this great responsibility. This is particularly pertinent in Somalia, where the AU for decades has worked tirelessly to improve security, most recently through AUSSOM.

While we regret that resolution 2719 could not be implemented in this situation, let me reaffirm Denmark’s commitment to support resolution 2719 and its broader application.

Across the continent, it is clear that challenges remain and more can be done. From insecurity in the Sahel to the devastating war in Sudan, to the continued violence in eastern DRC, it is imperative that the AU and UN work together, hand in hand, in support of sustainable and lasting peace.

Concretely, we see several avenues that we could explore. Denmark would welcome more frequent briefings from the AU on peace and security. We also believe our two Councils can enhance information sharing to improve early warning and preventive action. Joint field visits could similarly be explored. 

Second, Madam President,

It has been said before but bears repeating today. No two conflicts are the same. Across the African continent, conflict has varied drivers, varied actors and varied causes. The same needs to apply to our responses.

Impactful peacekeeping and peacebuilding will only succeed when based on an understanding of local contexts. When solutions are tailored, and when those most affected are meaningfully involved.

Denmark commends the UN and AU for their joint initiatives on the women, peace and security, and youth peace and security agendas. These efforts are critical to building inclusive peace, which is a prerequisite for lasting peace.

Similarly, we encourage increased collaboration on the climate, peace and security agenda.

With the aim of responding to the threats posed by climate change, and establishing effective and credible early warning mechanisms.

Third, Madam President,

Today’s complex challenges require a comprehensive response, coordinated across the pillars of the UN. The Peacebuilding Commission is uniquely placed to guide these efforts.

We can enhance dialogue with regional organisations through its convening role. And foster greater national ownership, inclusion of local actors and more diverse voices. And do so before conflict erupts.

Madam President in closing,

We look forward to upcoming opportunities to further strengthen this partnership, including next week’s visit to Addis and see it as a further opportunity to strengthen this partnership and the impending EU -AU summit in Luanda.

Denmark looks forward to continuing to work across the UN to support the vital efforts of the African Union towards the maintenance of peace and security in Africa.

Thank you.