Silencing the Guns: Annual Consultative Meeting Strengthens Collaboration between PAP and PSC

The recent meeting between the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and the African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) in Addis Ababa concluded with significant outcomes, highlighting the strengthened collaboration and cooperation between the two organs. The future looks promising as these strengthened partnerships and ongoing discussions pave the way for tangible actions and practical solutions towards Silencing the Guns in Africa.

During the meeting, the Pan-African Parliament’s efforts in promoting peace, security, and stability were acknowledged, underscoring its role in representing the aspirations of African people in the continent’s development. This recognition reflects the progress made by the PAP in its commitment to fostering a secure environment in Africa.

A notable decision made during the meeting was the establishment of an annual recess dedicated to facilitating meetings between the PSC and PAP. This decision, aimed at institutionalizing and regularizing these interactions, demonstrates a commitment to ongoing collaboration and engagement between the two organs. By jointly agreeing on the themes for these annual meetings, the PSC and PAP foster shared priorities and a collaborative approach, allowing for focused discussions on key issues.

Furthermore, the Peace and Security Council called upon the Pan-African Parliament to champion a common African position and encourage member states to sign and ratify AU instruments, in particular the Malabo Protocol which will empower the continental parliament with legislative powers.  This emphasis on unity and coordination in international fora highlights the importance of a unified African voice. By working together, the PAP and PSC aim to enhance Africa’s influence and representation on global platforms, ultimately contributing to the continent’s peace and security agenda.

The meeting also emphasized the significance of working synergies among all African Union organs, including the African Governance Architecture (AGA) and the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). This integrated approach recognizes the complementary mandates of these organs and reinforces the collective effort in promoting democracy, good governance, peace, security, stability, and the well-being of Africans. By encouraging closer cooperation with the Pan-African Parliament, the AGA and APSA further enhance their effectiveness in addressing Africa’s security challenges.

In a bid to ensure inclusivity and regional representation, the decision was made to hold future annual consultative meetings alternately between Addis Ababa and Johannesburg. This step reflects the commitment to involving various regions in discussions and promoting a sense of ownership among African states. The choice of these locations underscores the importance of collective decision-making and shared responsibility in addressing Africa’s security concerns.

The future looks promising as these strengthened partnerships and ongoing discussions pave the way for tangible actions and practical solutions, ultimately leading to a prosperous and peaceful Africa.