Ressource : “Civil Society Division” (African Union) “
- Rationale: This dedicated section of the African Union website provides comprehensive information on the mandate, core responsibilities, and activities of the AU Civil Society Division. This division plays a crucial role in integrating the contributions of civil society organizations into all aspects of AU principles, policies, and programs. Understanding the AU’s framework for engaging with civil society is essential for African NGOs seeking to align their work with continental priorities, build partnerships, and potentially access opportunities for collaboration and support.
- Analysis: The establishment of a specific division within the African Union dedicated to civil society affairs underscores the AU’s strategic recognition of the vital role played by NGOs and other civil society actors in achieving the Union’s overall objectives of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. This institutional recognition can create a more conducive environment for dialogue, collaboration, and potentially resource mobilization for African NGOs.
Ressource : “Civil Society Organizations Urged to Play Complimentary Political Roles”
- Rationale: This press release, emanating from the 2019 Civil Society Forum organized by the African Union Commission in partnership with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), highlights the critical role of CSOs in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). It underscores the need for CSOs to actively engage in various complementary policy roles, such as advocacy, mobilization, and policy analysis, to ensure the inclusiveness and success of the AfCFTA. This underscores the AU’s recognition of the significant contributions of civil society to broader continental development agendas, which can indirectly influence their access to resources and support from various actors.
- Analysis: The AU’s encouragement of CSOs to take active political roles in a major initiative like the AfCFTA suggests that NGOs engaged in political advocacy, citizen empowerment, and government accountability may find increased opportunities for engagement and potential support from the AU and its partner organizations.
Ressource : “ECOSOCC CSO MANUAL Advocacy and Policy Writing”
Rationale: This practical handbook, developed by the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) of the African Union, provides valuable guidance and tools for African CSOs on effective advocacy and policy drafting. While it does not directly address financial autonomy, equipping CSOs with these essential skills improves their ability to engage in policy processes, advocate for their needs and those of their constituents, and potentially influence policy decisions related to funding environments and resource allocation for civil society.
