African Union

The African Union is a continental organisation comprising 55 member states that aims to promote unity, peace, security and socioeconomic development across Africa. Established in 2002 in Durban, South Africa, the AU succeeded the Organisation of African Unity, which had been founded in 1963 to advance decolonisation and solidarity among newly independent African states. The AU's headquarters are located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and its principal decision-making body is the Assembly of the African Union, composed of heads of state and government who meet at least once a year. The organisation's mandate encompasses conflict prevention and resolution, promotion of democratic governance and human rights, economic integration and the coordination of development policies across the continent. Key organs include the Pan-African Parliament, the African Court of Justice and Human Rights, the Peace and Security Council and the African Union Commission, which serves as the secretariat. The AU has deployed peacekeeping missions in conflict zones, mediated political crises and championed initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area and AU Agenda 2063, a fifty-year development blueprint. Funding comes from member-state contributions, though the organisation has historically faced challenges with arrears and reliance on external donors. The AU plays a central role in representing African interests in global forums and fostering regional integration through partnerships with regional economic communities such as the Southern African Development Community. Its vision is of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa driven by its own citizens.