African Union facts for kids

Dark green: AU member states.
Light green: Suspended members.

The African Union (AU) is an international organization consisting of fifty-five African member countries. Founded in Durban on 9 July 2002, the AU was formed as a replacement to the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and the African Economic Community (AEC).

The current Chairperson of the African Union is President of Egypt Abdel Fattah el-Sisi since February 10, 2019.

The AU, in the future, aims to have a single currency and a single integrated defense force, as well as other institutions of state, including a cabinet for the AU Head of State. The purpose of the organization is to help secure the continent's democracy, human rights, and a sustainable economy, especially by bringing an end to conflict between African nations and creating an effective common market.

Related pages

• African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights
• European Union

Images for kids

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  Muammar Gaddafi embracing Tanzanian President Kikwete after assuming the chairmanship

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  South Sudanese independence referendum, 2011