The Benin is poised to take center stage in continental diplomacy next year. Starting in September 2026, the country will hold the rotating presidency of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC). Final preparations for this transition unfolded in Addis Ababa, where Benin’s Foreign Minister, Corinne Amori Brunet, met with the AU Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on the sidelines of the 49th session of the Executive Council.
An important milestone in a two-year mandate
This monthly leadership role is part of a two-year mandate (2026–2028) secured by Benin on February 11, when it was elected one of 15 members of the PSC. Seven months into its term, Cotonou now steps into a pivotal position within the body responsible for monitoring, preventing, and resolving crises across Africa.
While the rotating presidency does not grant unilateral decision-making power, it places Benin at the heart of continental diplomacy. Key responsibilities include:
- Setting the agenda: Benin will determine the priorities for PSC sessions and select urgent issues for discussion.
- Highlighting critical cases: The country will steer discussions on major hotspots such as the Sahel crisis, the conflict in Sudan, and instability in the Horn of Africa.
- Strengthening institutional coordination: Benin will lead interactions between the PSC and other AU bodies, including the Panel of the Wise and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
A high-profile platform during the UN General Assembly
The timing of Benin’s PSC presidency aligns with the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This convergence offers a prime opportunity for Benin to advocate for African security and governance priorities on the global stage.
