On 12 and 13 November, the United Nations Office to the African Union took part in a high level dialogue on the role of security sector reform and governance in peacebuilding, with a focus on building coalitions and partnerships. The event was jointly organised by UNOAU, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel, the Economic Community of West African States, and the African Union, and was held in Dakar, Senegal. The dialogue examined the contribution of security sector reform to sustainable peace and stability across the conflict cycle, and emphasised the importance of nationally owned strategies grounded in people’s needs. Participants included representatives of West African governments, civil society organisations, parliamentarians, and experts.
Opening statements were delivered by the Special Representative of the Secretary General for West Africa and the Sahel, ECOWAS representatives, the Government of Senegal, and the German Embassy. Speakers highlighted the importance of partnership, prevention, inclusive approaches, political will, and trust building. Discussions also underscored the evolving role of reform in prevention, peace, and development, and the value of strong leadership, parliamentary oversight, and civic engagement. Participants reviewed African Union, ECOWAS, and UNOWAS policy frameworks and shared lessons from Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Senegal.
Looking ahead, participants underlined the need for sustained political commitment, inclusive participation including women and youth, and responsiveness to emerging threats. Key actions identified included improved coordination, sustainable financing, development of guidelines and standards to support capacity building, and strengthened South South cooperation. The meeting affirmed that effective security sector reform is a political necessity and central to advancing peace, trust, and good governance across West Africa and the Sahel.
