On September 24, 2026, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye addressed the United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing the need for collective action to address global conflicts. He expressed concern over the proliferation of armed conflicts, citing wars in Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan, and crises in Haiti, Yemen, and Africa. The President noted that these conflicts have led to a degradation of international peace and security.
President Faye highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories, describing the suffering as "inacceptable" and the systematic violation of international law as "intolérable". He stressed that a lasting peace requires a two-state solution, with Palestine and Israel coexisting in secure, internationally recognized borders. The President emphasized that the international community must act to stop the massacres and destruction.
The Senegalese President called for a collective response to address the challenges posed by permanent conflicts, which fuel the arms race, undermine disarmament mechanisms, and increase risks related to new technologies and space exploration. He reiterated Senegal's commitment to working with international partners to promote peace and security, particularly in the Sahel region, where terrorism is a major concern.
As the current chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Faye pledged to work tirelessly to promote peace and security in the region, in collaboration with the African Union and the United Nations. He emphasized that the fight against terrorism requires a common effort, as the threat is transnational and can have far-reaching consequences.
In addition to conflicts, President Faye drew attention to other pressing global issues, including the Ebola epidemic, growing inequalities, and the urgent need to address climate change. He announced Senegal's co-organization of the third United Nations Conference on Water, to be held later in 2026, in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates.
The President emphasized that peace is not just an aspiration but a collective responsibility. He expressed Senegal's commitment to working with international partners to address the root causes of conflicts and promote sustainable development. President Faye's speech reflected Senegal's commitment to promoting peace, security, and cooperation at the international level.
The Senegalese President's address to the United Nations General Assembly reflects the country's growing role as a voice for peace and stability in Africa and beyond. His call for collective action and cooperation is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the complex challenges facing the international community.
Key points
- President Bassirou Diomaye Faye calls for collective action against global conflicts.
- Senegal to co-organize the third United Nations Conference on Water.
- President Faye emphasizes the need for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
