1、1 For online information on the African Union, see http:/www.africa-union.org andhttp:/www.au2002.gov.za.Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21332Updated April 30, 2003The African Unionnae redactedAnalyst in African Af
2、fairsForeign Affairs, Defense, and Trade DivisionSummaryIn July 2002, the Organization of African Unity (OAU), founded in 1963 duringthe decolonization era, was superseded by the African Union (AU). An AU InterimCommission, created to transfer the institutional and real assets and liabilities of the
3、OAU to the AU, and establish the AUs organizational structure, is the focal point ofAU activities during its inaugural year. The AUs policy agenda overlaps substantiallywith that of the OAU, but more strongly emphasizes a need for greater economic growthand for governance reforms. The AU is likely t
4、o confront many of the same policy andfiscal challenges faced by the OAU (see CRS Report RS20945, The Organization ofAfrican Unity). H.Res. 155, introduced in March 2003, urges U.S. support of the AU andits diverse economic and political goals. This report will be updated as events warrant.OriginsTh