A brief roundup of United Nations political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.
Grundberg warns Yemen has entered a new and more dangerous phase of conflict
On 10 September, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General (SESG) for Yemen Hans Grundberg briefed the Security Council amid a major escalation in fighting, warning that the risk of a return to large-scale conflict had become a “harsh reality.” With hostilities spreading across multiple frontlines and driving new displacement, the Special Envoy called for channels of engagement to remain open, for international humanitarian law to be upheld and for the pathway to a political settlement to be preserved. He stressed that Yemeni demands can be addressed through negotiations and pledged to continue engaging the parties and regional actors to identify possible off-ramps from further escalation.
Haavisto and Quintet advance coordinated efforts towards peace in Sudan
This week, Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan Pekka Haavisto joined the Quintet (the African Union, IGAD, League of Arab States, European Union and United Nations) for a good-offices mission to Khartoum. The Quintet met with senior officials and political and civilian actors, listening to Sudanese perspectives and seeking to connect international efforts with initiatives emerging inside the country. At the conclusion of the mission, the Quintet reiterated its commitment to a credible, inclusive, Sudanese-led and Sudanese-owned political process towards a democratic, civilian-led government reflecting the aspirations of the Sudanese people.
Cypriot leaders continue dialogue ahead of UN General Assembly
On 9 September, the UN Good Offices Mission in Cyprushosted Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman. The meeting came ahead of their expected travel to New York, where they are due to meet separately with UN officials on the sidelines of the General Assembly high-level week. The Good Offices Mission continues to support the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy in sustaining dialogue and advancing the peace process.
Running for peace and reconciliation in Colombia
On 5 September, the UN Verification Mission in Colombia joined more than 400 conflict victims, peace signatories, public officials and community members in the 5th Peace and Reconciliation Run in La Palma, Cundinamarca. Organized by the Government of Cundinamarca, the event highlighted the role of sport and civic participation in strengthening social cohesion and promoting reconciliation in a community once heavily affected by displacement.
UNRCCA equips young professionals with tools for preventive diplomacy
On 9 September, the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) brought together young professionals from Central Asia and Afghanistan participating in its Preventive Diplomacy Academy for a session on humanitarian action and international humanitarian law, led by experts from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Participants explored the foundations and application of international humanitarian law and discussed contemporary challenges, including urban warfare and cyber operations, as part of the Academy’s efforts to strengthen capacities in conflict prevention and preventive diplomacy.
DPPA engages partners on 2027–2030 Strategic Plan and Multi-Year Appeal
On 9 September, more than 40 missions joined the DPPA Donor Group meeting, hosted by the Permanent Mission of Norway to the United Nations. As the Department develops its next Strategic Plan and Multi-Year Appeal (MYA) for 2027–2030, the meeting provided an opportunity to hear partners’ perspectives on the priorities and challenges that will shape DPPA’s work in the years ahead. Reaffirming their support for DPPA, partners also underscored the MYA's role in providing flexible funding to support DPPA’s work and deliver on its mandate.
UNOAU and Denmark strengthen cooperation on climate, peace and security
On 31 August, the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU) and Denmark launched a new partnership to strengthen African Union–United Nations efforts to address the peace and security implications of climate change. Formally launched by Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the African Union Parfait Onanga-Anyanga and Danish Ambassador Sune Krogstrup, the cooperation will support UNOAU’s Climate, Peace and Security work through 2028, including policy development, stronger coordination and efforts to translate analysis into action. It will also support greater African engagement in continental and global policy processes.
