The Security Council, expressing concern about security and humanitarian challenges in West Africa — as well as the potential of the COVID-19 pandemic to exacerbate existing fragilities —adopted a presidential statement calling for national, regional and international support for countries of the region. In particular, the Council voiced concern over the latest tensions in Mali, urging stakeholders to prioritize the use of dialogue and refrain from actions likely to further tensions. Meanwhile, it called on political stakeholders in Guinea to resume dialogue without delay. In addition, the organ recognized the adverse effects of climate change, energy poverty, ecological changes and natural hazards — including drought, desertification, land degradation and food insecurity — on the stability of West Africa and the Sahel region. It stressed the need for long-term strategies, based on risk assessments, by Governments and the United Nations, to support stabilization and build resilience.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 29, 2020 23:48 UTC