ABSTRACT

This chapter offers both an overview of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and an analysis of its various components. The establishment of the APSA is a product of both internal and external factors. The internal factors mainly relate to the changes in the nature of conflicts on the continent. The internal and external factors referred to above eventually precipitated the transformation of the Organization of African Unity into the African Union (AU) at the turn of the century. This transformation ushered in both substantive normative and institutional changes. The Panel is composed of five prominent personalities of Africa who have made an outstanding contribution to peace, security and development on the African continent. According to the Modalities for the Functioning of the Panel, the members may not also hold an active political office while serving on the panel. The Commission implements AU policies, prepares its strategic plans and co-ordinates the body's activities and meetings.