Comparative Analysis of European Union Foreign Policy and African Union Foreign Policy: A Study of Objectives, Strategies, and Challenges

Abstract

This study provides a comparative analysis of the foreign policies of the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), focusing on their objectives, strategies, and challenges. Employing a qualitative research methodology via documentary review, the study analyzes secondary sources including official documents, policy statements, and academic literature. Key findings outline the distinct objectives of each union: the EU emphasizes promoting its values, democracy, rule of law, and human rights internationally (Article 21.1 TEU), while the AU prioritizes the promotion of peace, security, stability, and African solidarity (Article 3.h of the Constitutive Act). Similarities are found in their shared goals of promoting peace, security, democracy, and human rights. Divergences emerge in the EU's focus on regional integration and global governance versus the AU's emphasis on continental unity, economic development, and poverty eradication. Factors shaping EU policy include its treaty framework and member state interests, whereas AU policy is influenced by historical context, colonial legacy, and continental peace challenges. Both unions face significant implementation hurdles: the EU contends with achieving consensus among member states and external perceptions, while the AU grapples with limited resources, peace and security challenges, and weak enforcement mechanisms.