Context
In 2020, Africa witnessed almost one third of all violent conflicts worldwide. The reasons for this include the rise of extremist groups, increasing social divides, organised crime, and political instability. These challenges pose threats to local, national, and regional stability, impacting security and human rights. Additionally, the involvement of numerous regional and international actors, many operating outside established continental structures, has grown.
Consequently, the African Union (AU) and its member states are committed to preventing crises and advancing the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), as outlined in their strategy documents. The annual Tana Forum (Tana High-Level Forum on Security) at lake Tana in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, serves as an important platform for these efforts.