With 54 member states, the African Union (AU) is the largest intergovernmental organization on the African continent. Since its establishment in 1963 under the name Organization of African Unity, its role has been to help develop Africa economically, politically and socially by addressing some of the most challenging issues in modern history.

In the light of these challenging issues, this year’s AU will be addressing two of the continent’s biggest challenges - Rapid urbanization and ethnic conflicts. The African continent is home to the largest number of sufferers and deaths due to poor living conditions and endless violence due to ethnic disputes. Africa’s rapidly growing population along with the increasing demands of a constantly changing world is at one of the most dangerous points in its history. How will the AU meet these challenges? You decide.

Topic 1: Rapid Urbanization: Benefit or Burden?

Topic 2: Past Borders: Ethnic Conflicts and Divisions