African Union's tentative shift from neutrality to action: Democracy support in the European Union's adjacent African regions
In a recent study, the African Union's (AU) responses to the 2011 and 2019 uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Sudan have come under scrutiny. The study raises questions about the AU's credibility and the effectiveness of its democracy promotion mechanisms.
The African Union, with its robust normative framework including the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG) and the principle of non-indifference, has a clear commitment to democracy promotion. However, the practical application of these norms has been inconsistent, according to the study.
The study reveals a pattern of selective enforcement influenced by internal divisions, external pressures, and a preference for stability over democratic principles. This pattern is evident in the AU's responses to the uprisings, as specific details about its responses to these events are not provided in the study.
The study does not provide detailed accounts of the AU's responses to the 2011 uprisings or the 2019 uprisings in the mentioned countries. Similarly, it does not offer specific insights into the AU's response to the regime change in Sudan.
Despite the AU's formal commitment to constitutionalism and anti-coup norms, it frequently deviates from its own standards. This inconsistency has led to concerns about the AU's ability to effectively promote democracy.
Meanwhile, the European Union (EU) has been actively engaged in promoting democracy in its Southern Neighbourhood. In response to regime changes, the EU has called for coordinated and comprehensive responses to foreign influence, supported democratic reforms, and linked reform efforts to realistic accession prospects, civil society, and independent media aid.
For the uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Sudan, the EU's approach emphasized political engagement, condemnation of human rights violations, and a need for a stronger European institutional presence and clear criticism of authoritarian tendencies.
As the African Union continues to evolve in its role in democracy promotion, these findings highlight the need for greater consistency and adherence to democratic principles in its responses to regime changes.
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