The African Union (AU) is the main political body of the African continent. It brings together 55 countries to work for peace, integration and development. In 2023, it became a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency. Here is an explainer.
History
The AU grew out of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), founded in 1963 in Addis Ababa to support decolonisation and unity. The AU was formally launched in 2002 in Durban, South Africa, with a stronger focus on development, good governance and peace.
Headquarters and structure
- The headquarters are in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- The Assembly of Heads of State and Government is the top decision making body.
- The African Union Commission is its secretariat and is led by a chairperson.
- The Peace and Security Council handles conflicts and crises.
- The Pan African Parliament is based in South Africa.
Members
All 55 recognised African states are members. The AU can suspend countries where governments are overthrown unconstitutionally, and it has done so in several cases.
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Agenda 2063
Agenda 2063 is the AU’s long term plan for an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa. Its flagship projects include:
- The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to create a single market across the continent.
- Plans for better transport links and energy projects.
- Silencing the guns, an effort to end conflicts.
G20 membership
At the G20 New Delhi Summit in September 2023, held under India’s presidency, the African Union was made a permanent member of the G20. Before this, the European Union was the only regional body that was a full member. India had strongly pushed for the AU’s inclusion as part of its focus on the Global South.
India and Africa
- India and Africa have long ties through trade, the Indian diaspora and support for independence movements.
- India holds the India Africa Forum Summit with African nations.
- Indian firms invest in African mining, energy, telecom and agriculture.
- India offers training, scholarships and lines of credit to African countries.
Why it matters
Africa has a young and fast growing population and rich natural resources. A united African voice through the AU carries more weight in global forums.
Bottom line
The African Union is Africa’s main platform for unity and growth, and its G20 seat, won under India’s presidency, gives the continent a stronger global voice.
Source / स्रोत: African Union, Ministry of External Affairs, G20 India 2023
