African Union Vision
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.”
“…it is the inalienable right of all people to control their own destiny…”
(OAU Charter 1963)
“Today Africa has emerged from (its) dark passage. Our Armageddon is past. Africa has been reborn as a free continent and Africans have been reborn as free men. Today, we look to the future calmly, confidently and courageously. We look ot the vision of an Africa not merely free but united.”
Emperor Haile Selassie 1 May 25, 1963
Prior to the launch of African Union, the OAU Charter spelled out the purpose of the Organization:
- To promote the unity and solidarity of the African States;
- To coordinate and intensify their cooperation and efforts to achieve a better life for the peoples of Africa;
- To defend their sovereignty, their territorial integrity and independence;
- To eradicate all forms of colonialism from Africa;
- To promote international cooperation, having due regard to the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.