What is the African Union (AU)?

July 26, 2023

India's G-20 Sherpa recently said that the Indian Prime Minister’s proposal to make the African Union a permanent member of the G-20 has received an overwhelming response from the grouping.

About African Union (AU):

The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent.
It was officially launched in 2002 and replaced its predecessor, the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which was founded in 1963.
Primary Objective: To promote unity, cooperation, and development among African nations while advancing the continent's interests on the global stage.
It aims to strengthen political, economic, and social integration among African countries, with a vision of achieving an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.
Headquarters: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Structure:
- Assembly: It is the highest decision-making body, consisting of the heads of state and government of member countries.
- Executive Council: Made up of foreign affairs ministers, handles policy matters and makes recommendations to the Assembly.
- AU Commission: Headquartered in Addis Ababa, is the administrative arm responsible for implementing the decisions of the Assembly and the Executive Council.
- The Peace and Security Council: Responsible for maintaining peace and security on the continent.
- The AU structure promotes the participation of African citizens and civil society through the Pan-African Parliament and the Economic, Social & Cultural Council (ECOSOCC).