CP

The Chairperson placed a strong emphasis on conflict prevention during the AU-United Nations summit held in New York in April. By integrating the two agendas within the five strategic priorities of the African Peace and Security Architecture for the next three years, the AU has reaffirmed that gender, peace and security are essential elements of the overall African peace and security strategy.

The African Union Commission remains a key partner in prevention strategies that seek to address the scourge of sexual violence in conflict and to leave no one behind. We have developed specific legal instruments. However, it is clearly the time for all stakeholders to accelerate the practical implementation phase. We recognize the need to provide women with funding and capacity-building on peace and security issues and to strengthen initiatives and mechanisms to combat conflict-related sexual violence.