5th Annual informal consultative meeting between
the Peace and Security Council of the African Union and
the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission on climate and peacebuilding in Africa
Statement by Latvia
Chairpersons, Excellencies, Distinguished Colleagues,
Latvia appreciates this opportunity to exchange views with the Peace and Security Council of the African Union. This year we are marking the tenth anniversary since Latvia became an observer state to the African Union. We are determined to continue strengthening our engagement with this instrumental organization. Therefore, Latvia strongly supports regular dialogue between the PBC and the AU PSC in order to coordinate our common approach towards peacebuilding efforts in Africa and beyond.
We share the view regarding the urgency to address the impact of climate-related risks to peacebuilding. This stands particularly true in Africa which is the continent least responsible for climate change, but suffers disproportionately from its consequences, including floods, droughts, heatwaves, forest fires, storms, cyclones, and the rise of sea levels. There is no doubt that these are not merely factors affecting peace and stability in Africa, but rather key drivers which can lead to conflict and violence.
As we are meeting shortly after the conclusion of the COP27, we would like to highlight some encouraging results of the conference, particularly the historic decision to establish a loss and damage fund. The COP27 also saw the launch of Action Plan for the Early Warnings for All initiative, and Latvia joined the Joint Statement in support of this initiative. We’re also pleased that Team Europe Initiative on Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in Africa was launched during COP27 as part of the EU-Africa Global Gateway Investment Package. However, we recognize that overall efforts to mitigate climate change are still not proportionate to the scale of challenge we are collectively facing.
While seeking a strategic response to climate change, we also need to better understand the challenges faced by the local communities to see how we can assist them in building resilience in light of the disruptions caused by climate change. Latvia stands ready to share its expertise in the areas of clean and smart technologies, including in water and forest management. Equally, specific needs by various groups need to be considered. Particular attention should be given to perspectives of women, which may be disproportionately affected by health, economic and food security related impacts of climate change.
Finally, we recognize the interconnected nature of crises, ranging from military conflicts to climate change and resource shortages. In our efforts to support the most affected countries by the global food insecurity and high energy prices, Latvia supports the Grain from Ukraine initiative to deliver much needed grain to African partners. Furthermore, Latvia together with other EU member states has agreed to provide 600 million euros to urgently assist countries in Africa, Caribbean and the Pacific Region. Latvia’s share in these efforts is over 550 000 euros. As a member of the PBC and a donor of the Peacebuilding Fund we will continue to advocate for a closer cooperation with the African Union on addressing our common challenges.
I thank you.