Based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Africa Union, established in July 2002, is the successor to the Organization of African Unity, created in 1963. The AU's goals include promoting democracy, human rights, and sustainable economic development across Africa, especially by increasing foreign investment through the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). With an elaborate organizational structure roughly modeled on the European Union, the African Union is comprised of a Pan-African Parliament, a Commission, a Court of Justice (human rights abuses), and an Executive Council served by a Permanent Representatives Committee, and additional councils and specialized bodies.

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Introduction to organization -- History of organization -- How the African Union works -- The African Union, politics, and security -- The African Union and economics of the continent -- The African Union and society -- The road ahead.