PABF endorses Libya’s bid for AU Peace and Security Council seat

The Pan African Business Forum (PABF) has formally endorsed the State of Libya’s candidacy for election to the African Union Peace and Security Council, representing the North African region ahead of polls scheduled for February 2026 in Ethiopia.

Libya is contesting the position alongside the Kingdom of Morocco as the African Union prepares to elect a new member to the Council for the region.

In a statement issued by its Executive Committee, the PABF described its support for Libya as unconditional, stating that the country is best placed to occupy the strategic role on the continent’s foremost peace and security decision making body.

The African Union Peace and Security Council serves as the AU’s standing organ for the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts across Africa. It functions as a collective security mechanism with early warning capabilities and authorises peace support operations, undertakes peacemaking and peacebuilding initiatives, and supports post conflict reconstruction under the African Peace and Security Architecture. The Council is made up of 15 member states drawn from all five African regions and members are elected for two to three year terms.

According to the PABF, it will work closely with its continental partners to mount what it described as an intensive and aggressive campaign to rally support among African Union member states for Libya’s bid.

The Forum said it firmly believes Libya is the most suitable candidate for the position, citing the country’s strategic importance within the North African region and its extensive experience in conflict management over the past 15 years.

The statement highlighted Libya’s accumulated knowledge in handling conflict resolution both within its borders and across the wider North African region, as well as its tactical expertise in security, defence and peacekeeping matters. It also pointed to Libya’s experience in addressing challenges related to terrorism, human trafficking and illegal immigration within and beyond its territory.

In line with the upcoming election, the PABF said it has formally appealed to all African Union Peace and Security Council member countries to support Libya’s candidacy for the North African seat.

The statement was signed by Dr Ladislas Prosper Agbesi, Chairman of the Pan African Business Forum, who reiterated the organisation’s confidence in Libya’s ability to contribute meaningfully to continental peace, security and stability if elected.