16/02/2026
Statement on ERD’s Side Engagement During the (39) Session of the African Union Peace and Security Council
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 9th to 12th February 2026
The Environment and Rural Women’s Development Organization (ERD), as part of a joint advocacy delegation, participated in high-level sideline meetings held alongside the African Union Peace and Security Council sessions in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
These strategic engagements aimed to amplify Sudanese civil society voices and contribute to Sudan Peace dialogue on peacebuilding and humanitarian response in Sudan.
During these engagements, the meetings included:
• A dedicated meeting with the Quintet representatives from the (Afriacn Union, IGAD, UN, European Union, League of Arab States).
• Meetings with the British Embassy to Sudan 🇬🇧.
• Meetings with the Embassy of Canda to Sudan🇨🇦.
• Meetings with the Embassy of Norway 🇳🇴 .
• Meetings with the Embassy of Ireland 🇮🇪 .
Throughout these discussions, ERD and delegation partners emphasized the urgent need for meaningful, safe, and institutionalized participation of youth and women in Sudan’s peace processes. The delegation stressed that sustainable peace requires moving beyond symbolic representation toward concrete decision-making roles, particularly for women from conflict-affected, indigenous, and marginalized communities.
The delegation also highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in Sudan, including large-scale displacement, shrinking humanitarian space, protection risks, and the collapse of essential services. ERD called for strengthened diplomatic engagement, coordinated international support, and sustained advocacy to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and promote inclusive political dialogue.
Through this engagement, ERD reaffirmed its commitment to principled humanitarian action and regional advocacy. The organization will continue to work with continental bodies, diplomatic partners, and civil society networks to advance inclusive peacebuilding and community-led solutions for Sudan’s recovery and stability.