(Re)Negotiating Existence: Pan-Africanism and the Role of African Union in a Changing Global Order

The continued relevance of Pan-Africanism is rooted in the continuity of the domestic and global forces that propelled its emergence almost two centuries ago. Far from being over, racial capitalism and neoimperial forces and conditions continue to define the global capitalist order in an even more virulent form through neoliberal globalization. The increasing securitization of Africa through building of military bases by old and emerging global powers is one main evidence of coloniality of power. The expectations of early Pan-Africanists that a just and equitable global order can be forged, which recognizes and respects global diversity and ensures complementary development, have remained largely elusive. This paper examines the above issues in the context of a changing global order, in which Africa continues to occupy a peripheral position. The overarching questions are as follows: What is the relevance of Pan-Africanism in contemporary times? In view of the ongoing reforms at the African Union, how can the organization foster a new form of Pan-Africanism that can lead to the repositioning of Africa in global affairs? These questions will be analyzed using Pan-Africanism as a theoretical framework, historicism, and archival data from the African Union as well as data from secondary sources. The paper concludes that Pan-Africanism and a reformed African Union can help reposition Africa to contribute to the remaking of the international order in ways that are inclusive, humane, and mutually beneficial.