The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU, 1963-1999).

In May 1963, the leaders of 32 newly independent African nations met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and signed the charter creating the Organization of African Unity (OAU). This was the realization of the Pan-African vision for a united, free, and self-determined Africa.

The OAU charter reflected the founding fathers' recognition that freedom, equality, justice, and dignity were essential goals to achieve the legitimate aspirations of the African peoples. There was a need to promote understanding and cooperation among African Member States, transcending ethnic and national differences, in order to foster brotherhood and solidarity.

The guiding philosophy of the OAU was Pan-Africanism, which centered on African socialism and promoted African unity, the communal characteristics of African communities, and embracing Africa's shared culture and heritage.

The AU is guided by its vision of “An Integrated, Prosperous, and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”

For more information on the African Union Commission please visit https://au.int/en