What You Need to Know
The African Union’s specialized committee concluded its fifth session in Addis Ababa, advocating for a unified continental approach to tackle the increasing challenges of displacement. Participants emphasized that migration could be a driver of development if managed with comprehensive policies aligned with the AU’s Agenda 2063, urging member states to enhance coordination and support for millions of people.
Africa. The African Union’s Specialized Committee on Migration concluded its fifth session in Addis Ababa, calling for a unified continental approach to address the escalating challenges of displacement.
Participants emphasized that migration can become a driver of development if managed through comprehensive and coordinated policies that align with the priorities of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. They urged member states to enhance their capacities and intensify coordination with regional economic groups to ensure a sustainable response for millions of displaced individuals.
The discussions highlighted the need to update protection mechanisms, reform humanitarian structures, and provide long-term solutions for refugee and displacement situations. Additionally, they called for the development of return and reintegration guidelines, plans to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling, and to strengthen the role of the African humanitarian agency in leading responses to emergency crises.
In this context, ministers and experts shed light on the complexities of the Sudanese crisis, described as one of the most intricate humanitarian crises on the continent. They noted that the lack of humanitarian access and the difficulty of delivering aid pose significant challenges for the African Union and humanitarian organizations.
Participants explained that the control of different regions by warring factions hampers any effective intervention, while political efforts to end the war are being managed outside the continent, deepening the crisis and delaying access to solutions.
Speakers warned of the scale of violations in West Sudan, asserting that the crimes committed necessitate urgent international action and accountability through judicial institutions like the International Criminal Court, rather than mere statements.
It is noteworthy that the city of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, witnessed mass killings carried out by the Rapid Support Forces, which took control of the city after a year and a half of siege, prompting widespread global condemnation.
The committee concluded its work by calling for a transformation of words into actions and accelerating practical steps to alleviate the suffering of those affected, while enhancing the African Union’s capacity to respond to the increasing humanitarian crises threatening the continent’s stability and future.
The issue of migration in Africa has been increasingly complex, influenced by various factors including conflict, economic instability, and climate change. The African Union has recognized the need for a coordinated response to address the challenges faced by migrants and displaced persons, particularly in light of ongoing crises such as the situation in Sudan, which has exacerbated humanitarian needs across the continent.
Historically, Africa has experienced significant internal and external migration flows, often driven by the search for better opportunities or safety from conflict.
