A brief roundup of United Nations political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.
ASG Khiari underscores importance of UN–EU cooperation across peace and security
On 13 April, Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) Khaled Khiari briefed the Security Council on cooperation between the United Nations and the European Union. He stressed that cooperation remains longstanding, comprehensive and operational, and highlighted the EU’s role as a key partner across peace and security, human rights, sustainable development and humanitarian action. “In an increasingly complex and uncertain international environment, sustained engagement, dialogue and trust-building are essential,” he said, noting the EU’s support to UN good offices, mediation and political engagement.
Special Envoy Grundberg warns Yemen risks being drawn into wider regional conflict
On 14 April, Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, briefed the Security Council, warning that Yemen risks being drawn into a wider regional confrontation with devastating consequences. He stressed the need to safeguard Yemen’s peace process from escalation and called on parties to abide by the ceasefire. While noting positive developments, including approval of a 2026 state budget, he cautioned that Yemen remains highly exposed to regional economic shocks. “An inclusive political process remains the only viable path,” he said.
Special Envoy Xia warns of deteriorating situation in eastern DRC despite diplomatic efforts
On 15 April, Huang Xia, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, told the Security Council that despite intensified diplomacy, the security and humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to deteriorate. He stressed that no mediation or verification effort can succeed without political will and called on all actors to resume dialogue and revitalize the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement.
UN Special Coordinator exercises good offices in support of ceasefire efforts
A ten-day, US-brokered ceasefire came into effect at midnight between 16–17 April, following 45 days of hostilities between Israel and Hizbullah. In support of these efforts, Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert engaged Lebanese and Israeli officials through intensive diplomacy. She emphasized the need for an inclusive, whole-of-government approach to extend State authority and create conditions for long-term solutions through dialogue.
Sudan war enters third year as international efforts intensify
As the war in Sudan entered its third year on 15 April, Personal Envoy Pekka Haavisto participated in the International Humanitarian Conference in Berlin. With nearly 34 million people in need and over 4.5 million displaced across borders, discussions focused on mobilizing support and advancing protection of civilians. A joint statement by the Quintet underscored the urgent need to end the war and advance a durable peace.
UN, AU and sub-regional organizations convene on conflict prevention
From 14 to 15 April, the United Nations and the African Union convened the fifteenth consultative meeting together with Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms on the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts, with support from the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNAOU). Held virtually, the meeting brought together over 100 desk officers to strengthen working-level collaboration on peace and security. Discussions examined Africa’s evolving conflict landscape, reviewed joint initiatives, and identified priority areas for enhanced cooperation. The meeting concluded with practical recommendations to strengthen shared analysis, information sharing and coordinated responses in support of sustainable peace across the continent..
Commemoration in Cesar highlights victims’ role in peacebuilding
On 11 April, the UN Verification Mission in Colombia joined a national commemoration in Valledupar, reaffirming that victims are central actors in implementing the Peace Agreement and building sustainable peace.
Delivery of land titles advances rural reform in Colombia
On 15 April, the UN Verification Mission in Colombia witnessed the delivery of 2,100 land titles in Boyacá, supporting rural reform and strengthening land rights for thousands of families.
Secretary-General report highlights importance of full implementation in Colombia
In his latest report, António Guterres emphasized that full implementation of Colombia’s Peace Agreement remains essential to consolidating peace and security, particularly as the country enters a new electoral cycle.
UNRCCA academy explores lessons from League of Nations to UN
On 15 April, the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia hosted a session examining lessons from the League of Nations to today’s UN system, focusing on conflict prevention and collective security.
Next Week
The Security Council will meet on Colombia on 21 April. On 22 April, members will discuss Libya, including UNSMIL and sanctions, followed by a briefing on Syria. On 23 April, the Council will meet on Haiti, focusing on the work of BINUH.
The Peacebuilding Commission will hold an ambassadorial-level meeting on The Gambia’s national strategy on transitional justice and peacebuilding on 21 April.
