1. The African Union AU

2. Origin
In July 1999, the OAU Assembly decided to expedite the process of economic and political integration in the continent.
Four Summits have been held leading AU:
Sirte (1999) decided to establish the AU
Lome Summit (2000) adopted the Constitutive Act
Lusaka Summit (2001) drew the road map for AU
Durban Summit (2002) launched the AU

3. Objectives
To promote unity and solidarity between the African countries and peoples;
To defend sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of member states;
To accelerate political and socio-economic integration of Africa;
To encourage international coop. in conformity with UN Charter and the UD Human Rights;
To promote peace, security, and stability on the continent;
To promote the democratic principles and institutions, popular participation and good governance;
To advance Africa’s development by promoting research, particularly in the field of science and technology, etc;

4. Structure The Assembly. Composed of Heads of State and Government
The Executive Council. Composed of Ministers of Foreign Affairs
Secretariat. Consisting of SG and staff (HQs: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
The Commission. Eight Commissioners responsible for:
The Permanent Representatives' Committee,
Peace and Security Council (PSC)
Pan-African Parliament
The Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC)
The Court of Justice
The Specialized Technical Committees, e.g. On Monetary and Financial Affairs etc.

5. Similarities and Differences: OAU/AU
AU focuses more on economic development and good governance, OAU focused more on unity and decolonialisation
Both AU and OAU has similar structure, composition and similar approaches of doing things
Both AU and OAU has neglected their core responsibilities by not enforcing its decisions. 

6. Recap
Q&A
Next discussion: IOs active in the area of Trade and Finance

7. Sources
Source:
Diescho, J. (2002). Understanding the New Partnership for Africa’s Development. Windhoek: Namibian Institute for Democracy (p33-41)