Effectiveness of the African Union in Conflict Response

This K4DD Rapid Evidence Review finds that while the African Union (AU) has successfully established a framework for peace and security and demonstrated diplomatic influence, its effectiveness is mixed.

Evaluations indicate partial success in addressing a portion of violent conflicts through diplomacy and peace operations. Strengths include its legitimacy, comprehensive approach to peacebuilding, and willingness to mandate civilian protection in peace support operations.

A 2018 EU Court of Auditors evaluation found the AU’s African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) framework addressed a significant portion of violent conflicts in Africa through diplomatic, mediatory, or peace operation interventions. Of these, a substantial majority achieved some level of success in preventing or de-escalating the violence.