Highlighting Security Challenges and Solutions
In a recent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, UK Ambassador James Kariuki offered a comprehensive statement on the deteriorating security situation across the Sahel. His address encompassed four critical areas: security, democracy, climate change, and humanitarian need, underscoring the urgency of the situation and the need for collaborative action.
The Deteriorating Security Situation
Ambassador Kariuki expressed deep concern over the security situation in the Sahel, particularly in Mali. With the withdrawal of MINUSMA, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) plays an increasingly crucial role. The UK urges UNOWAS to use its good offices to bring all signatories of the 2015 Algiers Accords back to the negotiating table.
The UK also welcomes the contributions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to regional security and supports the potential of the Accra Initiative. Additionally, the UK stands ready to support the region and the UN for the upcoming Africa Counter-Terrorism Summit, highlighting the exacerbation of security challenges by the destabilizing actions of the Russian mercenary group Wagner.
Democracy Under Pressure
In his second point, Ambassador Kariuki noted the increasing pressure on democracy in the region. The timelines for restoring constitutional governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea continue to slip. Echoing ECOWAS’ calls, the UK urges a return to constitutional order and encourages adherence to transition timetables.
The statement also calls on Niger to agree to a transition timeline with ECOWAS and urges Chad to adhere to an inclusive and transparent transition process. The United Kingdom also congratulates Liberia on its recent peaceful transfer of power and acknowledges the Peacebuilding Commission’s role in supporting this process.
Climate Change Impacting Security
Recognizing the adverse effects of climate change on security and stability in the Sahel, Ambassador Kariuki commended UNOWAS’ work in the climate-security nexus. Furthermore, the UK supports efforts in the region to build resilience against climate change, thereby emphasizing the critical importance of addressing environmental factors that contribute to regional instability.
Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian situation in the Sahel remains dire. Since 2019, UK aid has supported over 15 million people in the Sahel with life-saving assistance. However, humanitarian needs are still going unmet. The UK calls for all actors to ensure safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance, highlighting the critical nature of addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
A Call for Collaborative Action
In closing, Ambassador Kariuki emphasized the need for closer collaboration with UNOWAS and regional organizations in light of the challenges outlined. The UK joins others in calling for a presidential statement of the Council to reflect this commitment to addressing the multifaceted issues facing the Sahel region.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & James Kariuki.
