AFRICAN UNION PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL (AUPSC)

The African Union was created in 1999 when the Heads of State and Government of the Organization of African Unity (the precursor of the African Union) issued adeclaration calling for the establishment of the African Union, in order toaccelerate the process of integration in the continent. This would enable Africa to play its rightful role in the global economy while addressing multifaceted social, economic and political problems compounded as they are by certain negative aspects of globalization. The main objectives of the AU are to rid the continent of the remaining vestiges of colonization and apartheid; to promote unity and solidarity among African States; to coordinate and intensify cooperation for development programs; to safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Member States and to promote international cooperation within the framework of the United Nations. As a continental organization the AU provides an effective forum that enabled all member states to adopt coordinated positions on matters of common concern to the continent in the international community. Besides, the forum defends the interests of Africa effectively. The AU is Africa’s premier institution and principal organization for the promotion of accelerated socio-economic integration of the continent. This will lead to greater unity and solidarity between African countries and peoples. It is based on the common vision of a united and strong Africa and on the need for partnership between governments and all segments of civil society, in particular women, youth and the private sector, in order to strengthen solidarity and cohesion amongst the peoples of Africa. The African Union Peace and Security Council is a double delegation committee composed of fifteen members elected on the basis of equal rights; ten of whom elected for a term of two years and five elected for a term of three years in order to ensure continuity. The AUPSC is comparable with the United Nations Security Council. However, none of the member states have the right of veto power. The AUPSC promotes peace, security and stability in Africa, in order to guarantee the protection and preservation of life and property. Also the AUPSC anticipates and prevents conflicts. The Peace and Security Council has the responsibility to undertake peace making and peace building functions for the resolution of these conflicts; promotes and implements peace-building and post-conflict reconstruction activities to consolidate peace and prevent the resurgence of violence.