THE AFRICAN UNION PEACE AND SECURITY ARCHITECTURE: A RESPONSE TO CONTEMPORARY REALITY

Abstract

The search for security and peace are central to both state and group formations; hence, the rise of human simple groupings which in recent times have evolved into more complex formations like the state and international organizations. The formation of the African Union to replace the defunct Organization of African Unity in the recent past is a realistic expression of this natural quest. This paper, therefore, while drawing its data from both secondary sources and a qualitative methodological analysis, sought to explain how the AU has been able to design a structure to meet its fundamental need in a continent that seems to be the most conflict-ridden and attendant developmental challenges. This paper, however, argues that whilst, there exist ample institutional design for combating security challenges on the continent, the problem of “capacity” and resolute commitment remain a critical stumbling block on the path of progress towards achieving its set goals. Finally, concludes among other things that proper assessment and reconciliation of issues of ambition be established, capacity and commitment for effective and efficient security structure and mechanism remain its cardinal priorities.