Overview of the 1319th PSC Meeting on Sudan
The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) issued a formal communique following its 1319th meeting, held on 16 December 2025, which focused on the evolving security and humanitarian situation in Sudan. This document consolidates the council’s assessments, concerns, and proposed actions as the regional bloc continues to monitor and respond to the ongoing crisis. The communique emphasizes the AU’s commitment to peace, stability, and the protection of civilians across Sudan.
Context and Core Concerns
The communique situates its analysis within the broader pattern of political uncertainty, armed clashes, and humanitarian needs that have characterized Sudan in recent years. It highlights the impact of conflict on civilian populations, displacement, and the disruption of essential services. The AU PSC underscores the importance of upholding international humanitarian law and protecting vulnerable groups, including women, children, and internally displaced persons.
Key Observations and Assessments
From its deliberations, the PSC notes several critical developments in Sudan, including: credible reports of ongoing ceasefire violations, concerns about access for aid workers, and calls for renewed efforts to open humanitarian corridors. The communique stresses that sustained engagement from regional and international actors is essential to de-escalate tensions and create space for dialogue, negotiation, and inclusive political processes.
Humanitarian Access and Protection
A central theme is the protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access. The AU PSC urges parties to the conflict to respect humanitarian space, ensure safe passage for aid convoys, and facilitate the delivery of lifesaving assistance to communities in need. The communique also calls for independent monitoring to verify the safety of aid workers and the credibility of reported incidents.
Political Dialogue and Mediation
The PSC reiterates its preference for a political solution achieved through inclusive dialogue. It encourages regional and international actors to support mediation efforts, promote confidence-building measures, and create conditions conducive to negotiations among Sudanese stakeholders. The communique stresses that lasting peace requires addressing core disputes, including governance structures, security sector reform, and the protection of civil rights.
Recommendations and Next Steps
The communique lays out a set of recommendations aimed at stabilizing the situation and reducing civilian suffering. These include:
- Renewed ceasefire commitments with verified compliance mechanisms.
- Expanded humanitarian corridors and safe humanitarian corridors agreements with oversight.
- Enhanced regional mediation efforts and coordination with AU partners and the United Nations.
- Implementation of civilian protection measures and accountability for violations.
- Continued monitoring and regular reporting to the AU Peace and Security Council to inform policy actions.
Implications for Regional Security and AU Strategy
The Sudan situation remains a test for the AU’s capacity to respond to complex emergencies while maintaining its principles of sovereignty and non-interference. The 1319th meeting demonstrates a commitment to proactive diplomacy, humanitarian protection, and a coordinated regional response. The AU PSC signals readiness to adapt its strategies as conditions evolve, including potential coordination with regional blocs and international partners to prevent a further spillover of instability into neighboring countries.
Conclusion
As the situation in Sudan continues to develop, the AU PSC’s communiqué from the 1319th meeting reinforces the group’s intent to safeguard civilians, promote dialogue, and support a peaceful, comprehensive settlement. The coming weeks are critical for the implementation of agreed measures and for rebuilding confidence among Sudanese stakeholders, with ongoing engagement from the AU and its partners.
