In response to the call for written inputs related to the upcoming Ministerial-level meeting, the Africa Faith and Justice Network (AFJN) , highlighted the following key points regarding the “Our Common Agenda Policy Brief 9 A New Agenda for Peace”. These are our recommendations for action for Member States:
United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Reform (Action 8): AFJN advocates for an inclusive UNSC representing a broader spectrum of nations. Decisions affecting global peace must include representatives from the countries and continents most impacted by insecurity. Diverse voices from the diverse cultures must be represented to ensure that no select few would monopolize the resolutions.
African Priorities and Accountability (Actions 2, 3, 4, 8): It is imperative to ensure the participation of, and to listen, clearly hear, recognize and prioritize the concerns of African people and their leaders, who are representatives of Africans and African nations who are directly impacted by decisions of the United Nations (UN) and other Member States. Recent events, such as the surge in military coups in West Africa, underscore the critical need for proactive engagement. Accountability mechanisms must be in place, as decisions made by the UN and Member States have far-reaching consequences in the region (ie the ill-fated intervention in Libya).
Evaluation of UN Peacekeeping Efforts in Africa (Actions 8, 9, 10): A thorough assessment of the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping operations over the past two decades is essential. This evaluation should acknowledge both successes and shortcomings, particularly in contexts like the Democratic Republic of the Congo. By candidly addressing what worked and what didn’t, we can derive valuable insights to inform future Peacebuilding Architecture.
Disproportionate Climate Impact on African Nations (Action 6): African nations are disproportionately affected by global climate shifts compared to their emissions. This leads to food insecurity, destruction of infrastructure, and challenges in resource access, resulting in instability. It is crucial that the UN and Member States fully consider this reality when discussing funding for climate resilience against future disasters. Additionally, any comprehensive peace plan must prioritize swift post-disaster infrastructure reconstruction paid for by major polluters. AFJN strongly advocates for unwavering support for the scientific consensus on human-induced climate change and echoes the call of faith-based organizations for the care of our common home. This emphasis underscores the critical importance of climate change resilience on the global agenda. We need urgent and collective action, as it is not just necessary, but the only way forward
AFJN appreciates the opportunity to contribute to this critical discourse and we look forward to the discussions ahead. Our submission aligns with the broader goal of enhancing multilateral cooperation for sustainable peacebuilding. AFJN holds an active Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).