SIPRI and the African Union sign memorandum of understanding

On 21 September, SIPRI and the African Union (AU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in New York for collaboration on peace research.

The MOU was signed by SIPRI Director Karim Haggag and HE Ambassador Bankole Adeoye of the AU's Political Affairs, Peace and Security department. The ceremony was held at the AU Mission in New York, in the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly High-level Week 2026.

'The MOU represents a significant milestone for us in supporting the AU Commission in its mandate through rigorous evidence-based research,' said Haggag. 'It was a tremendous honour to conclude this important framework with Ambassador Adeoye, and the fact that the signing coincides with the International Day of Peace gives this added significance.'

The MOU will enable greater cooperation between SIPRI and the AU on their common objective of enhancing peace and security across the African continent, particularly in conflict-affected and fragile countries.

The multi-year agreement will promote the sharing of knowledge, data and expertise between SIPRI and the AU, enhancing synergies between SIPRI's research on conflict, peace and security and the AU's policies and programmes. It will also support exchanges with, and the development of, regional research capacities.