New Books Network Two Decades On: The African Union, Power, and Africa’s Democratic Future
Nov 10, 2025
Dr. Adeoye Akinola, an Associate Professor at the University of Johannesburg, dives into the African Union's complex 20-year journey. He discusses the AU's elitist nature versus citizen engagement and highlights the challenges of democratic aspirations amid coups. Akinola explains the AU's diplomatic tools and effectiveness in defending democratic norms while addressing leadership challenges and the role of youth activism in political resilience. Additionally, he explores Africa's multipolar global position and envisions a democratic future by 2063.
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AU's Power Depends On Member States
- The AU is an intergovernmental organisation with limited supranational power, so expectations must match its design.
- Its effectiveness depends heavily on member states' will, leadership quality, and financial support.
AU Still Largely An Elite Project
- The AU remains largely elite-driven and many Africans are unaware of its existence or location.
- AU attempts to integrate civil society and youth exist but decision-making stays presidential and elite-focused.
Democracy Faces Real Reversals
- Democratic norms have weakened as military coups and democratic backsliding rose after 2020.
- The AU's protocols on constitutionalism lack coercive enforcement and struggle against entrenched autocratic practices.
