The organization serving as a continental body consists of 55 member states located on the continent. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU). Its purpose is to promote unity, integration, and sustainable development on the continent. Functioning as a supranational organization, it addresses a wide range of issues, including political stability, economic growth, and human rights. For instance, it has deployed peacekeeping forces to conflict zones and facilitated negotiations between disputing parties.
Its relevance within the context of human geography stems from its influence on regional trade agreements, migration patterns, and resource management across the continent. By establishing common policies and institutions, the organization aims to foster economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Historically, the push for such a union was fueled by the desire to overcome the legacies of colonialism and create a stronger, more unified voice on the global stage. Its initiatives directly impact spatial organization and human-environment interactions across the area.
