The African Union and Human Protection: Towards a Regional Protection Regime

Abstract

A global discourse of protection and responsibility suggests that human protection norms have gained traction. Empirically, this coincides with an observed global reduction in violence. How does this relate to regional protection practices in Africa; is there a regional protection regime? If so, how is this regime constituted, and what does it comprise? Does it shape regional protection practices, and if so, in what ways? This article describes the origins of human protection norms in Africa and outlines the institutions they have given rise to, and then assesses the role of the protection regime in shaping regional practices. An analytical framework based on regime theory, that assumes that the emergence of institutions and consistent practice indicates the emergence of a regime, is employed. An empirical survey of institutions and practices suggests the development of a regional protection regime. However, the regional structures differ from, and compete with, pre-existing international structures. While the structural prerequisites for a regional protection regime are now in place, several factors interfere with the development of the regional protection regime. The article concludes with several observations. First, the incoherence of global and regional structures results in contradictions and duplication among institutions. Second, a lack of agency of local actors, owing to limited resources and understaffing, inhibits consistent protective responses. Third, resistance by some regional agents to the norms underpinning the protection regime. However, incoherence, inconsistency, and hypocrisy are common features of regimes. Consequently, the fact that the African human protection regime is characterized by incoherence, inconsistency, and hypocrisy undermines neither its significance, nor its ability to shape practice and promote human protection.

Emerging Challenges in African Union's Peace and Security Strategy: A Comparative Analysis of UNAMID and AMISOM

“…By aligning national interests and prioritizing the collective goal of peace and stability, regional organizations can enhance the effectiveness of their peacekeeping operations. Additionally, strengthening regional mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution, such as early warning systems and mediation capacities, can contribute to more effective peacebuilding [41]. [42].…”

“…African regional organizations have provided valuable lessons in peacekeeping through their demonstrated regional ownership and responsiveness [33]. ECOMOG's interventions in Liberia and Sierra Leone exemplify the importance of regional ownership in peace operations.…”

“…Coordination and collaboration with other regional and international actors are also essential for successful peacekeeping operations. Cooperation with the United Nations, neighboring countries, and relevant stakeholders enhances the effectiveness of peacekeeping efforts and contributes to regional stability [30]. By sharing information, coordinating actions, and leveraging the strengths and resources of different actors, African regional organizations can achieve better outcomes in their peacekeeping endeavors.…”

“…By addressing these challenges through enhanced resource mobilization, political dialogue, coordination mechanisms, and sustained funding, both African regional organizations and the United Nations can strengthen their peacekeeping efforts and contribute to a more peaceful and stable Africa. Continued research, knowledge sharing, and capacity-building efforts are essential to improving peacebuilding practices and achieving peace in the continent [28].…”