Overview of the 1319th PSC Meeting
The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) convened its 1319th meeting on 16 December 2025 to assess the evolving crisis in Sudan and to align on a coordinated regional response. The meeting brought together senior representatives from member states, regional bodies, and AU entities to discuss humanitarian access, ceasefire prospects, dialogue mechanisms, and regional stabilization efforts. The communique released at the close of the session underscored the urgency of safeguarding civilian lives while preserving Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Key Themes and Findings
Several core themes emerged from the discussions, rooted in the PSC’s long-standing mandate to prevent violence and protect civilians in Africa. Delegates reviewed the latest security developments, noting persistent fighting in key urban centers and the impact on vulnerable populations. There was broad emphasis on preserving humanitarian corridors, ensuring safe humanitarian access, and ensuring aid deliveries reach conflict-affected areas without delay. In addition, the PSC highlighted the need to minimize disruption to essential services such as healthcare, water, and electricity, which are critical for civilian resilience during periods of upheaval.
Ceasefire Prospects and Diplomatic Engagements
Discussions stressed that a durable ceasefire remains a prerequisite for meaningful humanitarian relief and for any advance toward political reform. The Council called on parties to demonstrate good faith by reducing hostilities in civilian-populated zones and by respecting international humanitarian law. The PSC also considered ongoing diplomatic channels with regional partners and international actors, urging renewed engagement that prioritizes structured talks, monitoring mechanisms, and a clear timeline for negotiations. Member states were urged to support these efforts with diplomatic backing and, where appropriate, confidence-building measures that reduce risk to civilians and aid personnel.
Political Process and Governance
Beyond immediate security concerns, the 1319th meeting emphasized the importance of a credible political process. Delegates discussed inclusive dialogue that brings civil society, women’s groups, and youth organizations into the negotiation framework. The PSC asserted that any roadmap for Sudan must be anchored in the principles of transitional justice, accountability for abuses, and a pathway to civilian-led governance. The communique called for the speedy establishment of an agreed transitional authority with clear mandates, timelines, and minimum benchmarks aligned with regional and international expectations.
Humanitarian Response and Protection of Civilians
A central thread throughout the deliberations was the protection of civilians and the unhindered operation of humanitarian actors. Representatives urged donor countries and regional partners to scale up funding for relief operations, food security, and nutrition programs, particularly for internally displaced persons and host communities bearing the brunt of the conflict. The PSC also highlighted the importance of protecting healthcare facilities and workers, ensuring that vaccination campaigns and essential medical services can continue despite security challenges.
Regional Stabilization and Security Sector Reform
The implications for regional stability were a recurrent topic. The PSC discussed cross-border security dynamics, including arms trafficking and refugee flows across neighboring countries. Proposals included enhanced regional information sharing, joint patrols along critical corridors, and support for security sector reform that aligns with civilian protection and rule-of-law standards. The goal is to reduce spillover effects while strengthening regional resilience to future shocks.
Next Steps and Commitments
In closing, the PSC reaffirmed its readiness to monitor ongoing developments and to provide political and technical support as needed. The communique outlined a framework for follow-up meetings, regular situation updates, and a coordinated mechanism for rapid response to new humanitarian and security developments. Member states were urged to align their national positions with the agreed regional strategy, ensuring that aid access, civilian protection, and a credible political process remain at the forefront of Africa’s response to the Sudan crisis.
