The African Union's Peace and Security Council (CPS) recently convened its 1369th meeting at the ministerial level in New York, where it emphasized the need for a continental framework to combat the use of emerging technologies by terrorists. The Council called on the AU Commission to finalize the African arrest warrant and database on African terrorists, aiming to enhance trans-border judicial cooperation and disrupt illicit supply networks. This move is in line with the AU Assembly's decision 978, adopted on February 22, 2026.
The CPS commended President Abdelmadjid Tebboune for his efforts in advancing the AU's agenda on combating terrorism and violent extremism. The Council also urged member states that have not yet done so to sign and ratify AU instruments related to counter-terrorism, including the Organization of African Unity (OAU) Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism, adopted in 1999 in Algiers. This convention and its protocol aim to bridge regional security gaps and strengthen the continent's normative framework.
Algerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, highlighted his country's priority on combating terrorism financing and drying up its sources, particularly by tackling the exploitation of advanced technologies for terrorist purposes. He recalled the "Algerian Guiding Principles," adopted by the UN Security Council in January 2025, which serve as a reference framework for international efforts in this area. Attaf also emphasized President Tebboune's role as the AU's Champion for Combating Terrorism and Violent Extremism.
The Algerian approach to counter-terrorism is based on the conviction that security and military responses, although necessary, cannot alone ensure durable security and stability without being accompanied by development, reconciliation, and the consolidation of state institutions. This approach also involves addressing the conditions exploited by terrorist organizations to recruit and expand. The AU's Peace and Security Council has expressed concern over the proliferation of security challenges on the continent, including terrorism, violent extremism, and hate speech.
In a related development, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 72/130 in 2017, proclaiming May 16 as the International Day of Living Together in Peace, at the initiative of Algeria. This resolution aims to intensify international efforts in favor of peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding, and fraternity. The AU's Peace and Security Council has welcomed Algeria's leadership in promoting living together in peace.
The AU's Peace and Security Council has called on African countries that are members of the UN Security Council (A3) to organize annual events within the UN to showcase Africa's experience in peace consolidation and living together. This move seeks to promote African approaches to peace and security, as well as to share best practices in addressing security challenges.
The Council's emphasis on combating terrorism and violent extremism is part of a broader effort to address the complex security landscape in Africa. The AU is working to strengthen its normative framework and enhance cooperation among member states to effectively counter terrorist threats. By commending Algeria's efforts, the CPS has acknowledged the country's significant contributions to regional and continental peace and security.
Key points
- The African Union's Peace and Security Council has praised Algeria's efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism.
- The Council has called for a continental framework to combat the use of emerging technologies by terrorists.
- Algeria's approach to counter-terrorism emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy that includes development, reconciliation, and the consolidation of state institutions.
