[African Union] The African Union (AU) recognizes that women's participation and leadership must be considered a primary element in the quest for peace and security on the continent. In recognition of the importance of women as equal partners in peace, security, governance and sustainable development, the African Union through the Office of the Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security is facilitating a High-Level Regional Forum of Women of the Great Lakes Region focused on the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic
