A brief roundup of United Nations political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.
USG DiCarlo reiterates call for full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine
Briefing the Security Council on 23 March, Under-Secretary-General (USG) Rosemary DiCarlo said that over four years since the Russian Federation’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine—nearly 1,500 days of death, destruction and despair—the violence was worse than ever. “The longer the war exists, the deadlier it becomes, with growing risks to regional and international security,” she said. The USG reiterated the call for a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire and welcomed diplomatic efforts led by the United States over the past year to advance peace in Ukraine.
“The aim must be a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in line with the UN Charter, international law and relevant UN resolutions,” she said, adding that a settlement must uphold the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.
UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon engages political and security actors as part of de-escalation efforts
United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert continued to leverage the good offices of the Secretary-General to push for de-escalation and a pivot to diplomatic solutions, as the exchange of fire between Israel and Hizbullah continued unabated. She held a round of meetings with Lebanese officials this week, including with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on government efforts to de-escalate hostilities, and with Minister of Information Paul Marcos on the need to protect healthcare workers and journalists. She also met Lebanese Armed Forces Commander Gen. Rodolph Haykal to discuss the army’s role in securing long-term stability, and visited the South Litani Sector headquarters in Tyre. She continues to advocate for scaled-up domestic and international support for the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Empowering women peacebuilders via South-South cooperation
On 25 March, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) and the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia brought together more than 150 women peacebuilders, mediators, diplomats and UN officials for an interregional exchange on strengthening South-South cooperation.
In her keynote, USG DiCarlo warned of a growing backlash against gender equality and reaffirmed DPPA’s commitment to advancing women’s participation. Colombian women leaders stressed that peace is meaningful only when it improves daily life for women, especially at the local level. Speakers from West Africa and the Sahel highlighted women’s expanding roles in conflict resolution despite insecurity and political pressures.
UNOWAS and ECOWAS strengthen coordination
On 25 March 2026, SRSG Leonardo Santos Simão met in Abuja with ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray to reinforce cooperation on regional security and integration. Both reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue as a pathway to peace, stability and democratic governance and emphasized the importance of safeguarding regional integration gains.
Cameroon and Nigeria – toward a final demarcation
SRSG Santos Simão concluded a mission to Cameroon and Nigeria to advance final border demarcation efforts. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful resolution, strengthened cooperation and cross-border development, with completion targeted by the end of 2027.
SRSG Jenča visits Huila to assess progress
SRSG Miroslav Jenča visited Huila from 26 to 28 March to assess implementation of the Final Peace Agreement. He emphasized that effective implementation remains key to strengthening security and stability and highlighted the critical role of women’s leadership in sustaining peace.
Community participation strengthens reintegration in Patía
In Patía, Cauca, the Verification Mission in Colombia supported a community event bringing together peace signatories and local residents to promote reconciliation and social cohesion. Activities included dialogue, cultural engagement and support for community education initiatives.
PBC convenes second annual interactive strategic dialogue with the Peacebuilding Fund
On 18 March 2026, the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) held its second annual dialogue with the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF). Discussions highlighted the Fund’s catalytic role and the need for sustained financing, partnerships and national ownership.
PBC expert-level meeting on PBAR implementation
On 26 March, the PBC held an expert-level meeting on implementing the Peacebuilding Architecture Review, with Member States emphasizing prevention, partnerships and financing as key priorities.
PBPSO briefs Member States on peacebuilding impact
On 25 March, PBPSO briefed Member States on efforts to measure and communicate peacebuilding impact, including upcoming reports and data initiatives.
Next Week
Bahrain will assume the rotating presidency of the Security Council on 1 April.
