Somalia begins its January presidency of the UN Security Council, returning to the body after 54 years as it confronts a crowded agenda dominated by Somaliland tensions, the war in Gaza, and Sudan’s deepening humanitarian crisis.

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland triggered sharp divisions at the UN Security Council, with Somalia and regional allies warning the move threatens sovereignty, regional stability, and security in the Horn of Africa.

The latest study by the Security Council Report (SCR) reveals a quiet but significant shift inside the UN Security Council: Africa and the Caribbean—through the A3 Plus—are emerging as a disciplined diplomatic force capable of reshaping negotiations and challenging long-entrenched power dynamics. Far from Cold War non-alignment, this new bloc is redefining how influence flows inside the Council’s most contested debates.

At UN Headquarters, Secretary-General António Guterres and African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf held a joint press conference marking the conclusion of the 9th AU–UN Annual Conference. In response to ATN’s Ahmed Fathi, Youssouf rejected allegations of genocide in Nigeria, while Guterres called for stronger protection of journalists and humanitarian workers, labeling them “the world’s two most dangerous professions.”

The UN condemned mass killings and hospital attacks in El Fasher after the RSF seized the city, with over 460 civilians reportedly killed. Human Rights Watch verified videos showing RSF fighters executing civilians and urged the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on the group’s leaders.

El Fasher has been under siege for more than 500 days, leaving hundreds of thousands trapped. Families face relentless shelling, famine in displacement camps, and blocked aid convoys. At least 125 civilians have been killed since August 11, many executed, as hunger and fear tighten their grip on the city.

The Egypt–Gulf relationship is shifting from shared vision to strained bargain. While the Gulf demands asset-backed investments and disciplined returns, Egypt seeks financial relief and political breathing room. The trust that once bridged these differences is fading, replaced by transactional terms that risk unraveling in times of crisis.

The 7th Africa Open for Business Summit at the UN highlighted global efforts for women’s empowerment, focusing on Africa’s economic growth.

The African Union is tackling AI challenges with a focus on infrastructure, energy, and data sovereignty to secure Africa's digital future.

Kenya's Parliament passed the Finance Bill 2024, sparking public outcry as new taxes hit essentials, increasing the cost of living.