In a significant milestone for its continental diplomacy, Bénin is set to assume the rotating presidency of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) for the entire month of September 2026. The transition phase leading to this leadership role was finalized during a meeting in Addis-Abeba between Bénin‘s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Corinne Amori Brunet, and the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on the sidelines of the 49th session of the Executive Council.
Pivotal role in a two-year mandate
This monthly presidency is part of a broader two-year mandate (2026-2028) secured by Bénin on February 11, when it was elected as one of the 15 members of this influential decision-making body. Seven months into its tenure, the country is now stepping into the spotlight as it takes the helm of an institution tasked with monitoring, preventing, and managing crises across the continent.
While the rotating presidency does not grant unilateral decision-making powers, it positions Bénin at the nexus of continental diplomacy:
- Agenda setting: Bénin will determine the monthly session agenda and prioritize key themes for discussion.
- Spotlight on urgent issues: The country will guide discussions on pressing conflicts, including those in the Sahel, Sudan, and the Horn of Africa.
- Institutional coordination: Bénin will oversee interactions with other AU bodies, such as the Panel of the Wise and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
A global platform during the UN General Assembly
The timing of Bénin‘s PSC presidency aligns strategically with the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This alignment provides Bénin with a high-profile opportunity to champion African perspectives on security and governance on the global stage.
