Background of the African Union

The African Union was established in July 2002 by African leaders, evolving from the Organization of African Unity (OAU). However, the idea of the African Union can be traced to the Pan-Africanist movement.

Analysis by Timothy Murithi

Timothy Murithi looks at the emergence of Pan-Africanism and how it was institutionalized through the Pan-African Congress and the OAU. He argues that the African Union represents the third phase of the institutionalization of Pan-Africanism.

Focus of the Book

The book examines the limitations of the OAU and discusses whether the African Union can adopt a more interventionist stance in dealing with peacebuilding and development in Africa. The volume assesses the African Union's peace and security institutions and analyzes how it is beginning to collaborate with civil society.

Critical Perspectives

It takes a critical look at the Union's New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and argues that Africa needs to adopt a developmental and governance agenda that will be much more responsive towards improving the well-being and livelihood of its peoples.