The African Union was officially launched in Durban, South Africa, on 9 July 2002 to replace the Organisation of African Unity. Its structure is based loosely on that of the European Union. The African Union upholds the sovereign equality and independence of its 53 member states and aims to promote peace, security and solidarity on the African continent.
The AU consists of the following organs:
The Assembly
The Assembly is made up of the heads of state of all member states and is the most important decision-making body of the union. The assembly meets once a year and elects a chairperson. Decisions are made by consensus or two thirds majority. The assembly has the function of deciding on common policies for the union, considers applications for membership, adopts the budget and directs the process of conflict resolution and it appoints the judges for the Court of Justice.
The Executive Council
The Executive Council is made up of the ministers of foreign affairs of member states and is accountable to the Assembly. The council decides on matters such as foreign trade, social security, food, agriculture and communications. The council prepares material for the assembly to discuss and approve.
The Permanent Representatives Committee
This committee is composed of ambassadors to the AU and has the responsibility of preparing the work for the Executive Council.
The Commission
This forms the secretariat of the AU and is made up of a chairman, a deputy and eight commissioners. The commission deals with administrative issues and implements the decisions of the union. It is responsible for the coordination of AU activities and meetings. Applications for membership should be made to the commission.
Specialised Technical Committees
These committees deal with monetary and financial issues, the rural economy, trade, immigration, industry and science and technology. They are responsible for the implementation of projects and programmes of the union.
The Pan-African Parliament
The Parliament will consist of elected representatives nominated from the five regions of Africa. It will ensure civil society participation in the AU processes.
The Court of Justice
The court will rule on human rights abuses in Africa in terms of a legal statute or framework.
The Economic, Social and Cultural Council
This council performs an advisory function and is composed of professional and civic representatives.
Financial Institutions
Three financial institutions will be set up under the auspices of the AU to provide funding for projects and programmes. They are African Central Bank, the African Monetary Fund and the African Investment Bank.
The Peace and Security Council
The council will have fifteen members responsible for monitoring and intervening in conflicts. The council will be alerted by an early warning system as to any threats to security on the continent. The council will be finalised by a peace fund. The council will be advised by a council of elders and will have an African force at its disposal.
