In a significant effort to advance peace and stability across Africa, the African Union (AU), UNITAR, and the World Bank Group, along with key partners such as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS), convened a two-day hybrid event in Geneva, Switzerland. This gathering, held under the UK FCDO-funded joint program “Strengthening Operational Linkages between Early Warning and Conflict Response (2023-2025),” brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and experts to explore the critical intersection of human rights, early warning systems, and conflict prevention.
The event featured a high-impact panel titled “Building Bridges for Peace,” which took place as a side event during the 55th session of the Human Rights Council. This discussion served as a platform for a south-south exchange of experiences, focusing on the lessons learned from disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) in both Colombian and African contexts. The dialogue underscored the importance of integrating human rights into early warning mechanisms, with a particular emphasis on the reintegration of ex-combatants and the vital role of women in peace processes.
Participants from 16 countries, including representatives from Member States, UN institutions, and NGOs, engaged in rich discussions that highlighted the growing need for collaboration in addressing the root causes of conflict. The event also served as a precursor to a series of closed technical meetings, where stakeholders worked to refine strategies and strengthen partnerships for more effective conflict prevention and response.
As violent conflicts continue to escalate globally and across Africa, the insights gleaned from this gathering will inform the ongoing joint AU-UN-WB partnership, shaping future efforts to support regional actors and Member States in their quest for lasting peace and security. The event not only bridged the gap between continents but also set the stage for more robust and coordinated interventions aimed at breaking cycles of violence and fostering sustainable development in the region.
Discover the insights and key takeaways in the full Outcome Report – Building Bridges for Peace.