Terrorism and Transformation of Rules of Behaviour: A Case Study of the African Union

The concept of terrorism has been a political phenomenon since 1795 when terror was used as an instrument of furthering political ends. This research explores the African Union counter-terrorism mechanisms that emerged after the disastrous September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on America. Analysis bas been made of the historical development of counter-terrorism in Africa since the legacy of the Organization of African Unity. Being an Organization whose agenda was to rid Africa of colonialism, the OAU played a very limited role in preventing and combating terrorism in Africa. However, it created a pathway for the existing African counter-terrorism strategies. The formation of the African Union was as timely as the need to combat terrorism, whose effects not only in Africa but around the world had caused disastrous consequences. The African Union has played a critical role in transforming the rules of behavior against terrorism in Africa, by putting forth both legal and institutional counter-terrorism mechanisms. Furthermore, the AU continues to collaborate not only with the regional and sub-regional organizations to fight terrorism in Africa, but also with the international organizations, like the United Nations and European Union. This research will hopefully be useful in understanding the nature of the terrorist threat in Africa and the policies which have been undertaken by the African Union, as the main continental body responsible for maintaining African peace, security and stability. The research therefore underscores the important role played by the African Union in fostering counter-terrorism strategies in Africa with the help of regional organizations, while promoting stability in the era of international terrorism.