Benin to lead african union peace and security council in september 2026

An important milestone in West African diplomacy is on the horizon as Bénin prepares to assume a pivotal role on the continental stage. Starting in September 2026, the country will take over the rotating presidency of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) for the entire month. This transition marks a significant step in Bénin’s two-year mandate (2026-2028), following its election to the 15-member PSC in February of the same year.

The handover process has already begun, with high-level discussions taking place in Addis Ababa. Corinne Amori Brunet, Bénin’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, on the sidelines of the 49th session of the Executive Council. These consultations are part of the final preparations to ensure a smooth transfer of responsibilities.

What does the rotating presidency entail?

The PSC presidency, while not granting unilateral decision-making power, places the presiding country at the heart of continental diplomacy. During its tenure, Bénin will shape the agenda for the month, setting the priorities for discussions and debates. This includes:

• Agenda-setting: Bénin will determine the key topics for PSC sessions, ensuring urgent regional and global security issues are addressed.
• Highlighting crises: The presidency will focus international attention on pressing conflicts, such as the Sahel instability, the Sudan crisis, and tensions in the Horn of Africa.
• Inter-institutional coordination: Bénin will facilitate collaboration between the PSC and other AU bodies, including the Panel of the Wise and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

A strategic platform during the UN General Assembly

The timing of Bénin’s presidency aligns with a unique opportunity: the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This coincidence provides Cotonou with a high-profile platform to amplify African perspectives on security, governance, and conflict resolution directly to a global audience.