The 2026 edition of DERE TALK, organized by the DERE Institute, took place at the Sheraton Hôtel in Djibouti, bringing together young people, anonymous personalities, and civil society representatives. The event, held on October 1, 2026, was dedicated to discussing diplomacy, peace, and the role of women in managing crises and conflicts in Africa. Hawa Ahmed Youssouf, a Djiboutian diplomat and author of "Une diplomate djiboutienne au cœur des tumultes africains," was the guest of honor. Her experience served as the foundation for the discussions.
The DERE TALK 2026 discussions revolved around three main questions: diplomacy in the service of peace, the role of women in diplomacy, and diplomatic action in crisis and conflict situations. The event aimed to explore the complexities of diplomacy in Africa, particularly in times of tension and conflict. Youssouf's testimony provided valuable insights into the realities of African diplomacy, highlighting the importance of maintaining dialogue and finding peaceful solutions.
The role of women in conflict resolution and peacebuilding was a significant focus of the discussions. The participants emphasized that women are not only affected by conflicts but can also play a crucial role in mediation, negotiation, and prevention of conflicts. Youssouf's experience served as an example of women's participation in diplomatic efforts, demonstrating their capacity to contribute to finding solutions.
The DERE TALK 2026 event was particularly relevant given the current context in Africa, where multiple crises are affecting the continent. The discussions highlighted the importance of dialogue and mediation in finding peaceful solutions to these crises. The event provided a platform for diplomats, experts, and civil society representatives to share their perspectives and experiences.
The DERE Institute has been organizing the DERE TALK series for seven years, aiming to create a space for strategic reflection, positive thinking, and societal debate in Djibouti. The event has become an annual platform for discussing issues related to geopolitics, geostrategy, and social and economic challenges. This year's edition was attended by diplomats, experts, political personalities, decision-makers, young people, and civil society representatives.
The discussions at DERE TALK 2026 underscored the significance of diplomacy in maintaining peace and stability in Africa. The participants emphasized that diplomatic efforts should be strengthened, particularly in regions affected by conflicts and crises. The event provided a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and explore ways to address the complex challenges facing the continent.
The DERE TALK 2026 event concluded with a renewed emphasis on the importance of diplomacy, women's participation, and peacebuilding in Africa. The discussions highlighted the need for continued efforts to promote peaceful solutions to conflicts and crises, and the role of women in these processes. The event demonstrated the commitment of the DERE Institute to fostering strategic reflection and debate on critical issues affecting Africa.
Key points
- The 2026 edition of DERE TALK focused on diplomacy, women's roles in conflict resolution, and peacebuilding in Africa.
- The event featured Djiboutian diplomat Hawa Ahmed Youssouf as the guest of honor, sharing her experience in African diplomacy.
- The discussions emphasized the importance of women's participation in diplomatic efforts and peacebuilding processes.
