The African Union’s priorities for 2025 emphasize a more proactive approach to addressing peace and security challenges across the continent. With conflicts escalating and global powers becoming more distracted, the AU’s leadership in diplomacy and conflict resolution is crucial. Key priorities include:

Renewed leadership, where a new AU chairperson could inject fresh momentum into peace efforts. The AU should advocate for peace talks to end the ongoing civil war in Sudan, while also working to prevent escalating tensions between Rwanda and the DRC in the Great Lakes region.

Security in Somalia is another focus, with a potential new AU mission aimed at countering Al-Shabaab. In the Sahel, the AU must engage with transitional governments despite shifting political alliances to maintain stability. Supporting credible elections in Cameroon is vital to addressing the Anglophone crisis, while the AU should work to prevent Sudan’s ongoing conflict from destabilizing South Sudan.

Finally, addressing climate security is essential, as the risks of conflict linked to climate change continue to rise. The AU’s ability to tackle these issues effectively will depend on strong leadership, adequate funding, and effective coordination with regional organizations, especially as Western support decreases.