African Union Holds Annual Summit Amid Youth Criticism

The continent's main regional body meets in Ethiopia to discuss Africa's future.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The African Union, the continent's main regional organization representing around 1.4 billion people, is holding its annual summit this weekend in Ethiopia to debate the future of the continent. However, the gathering is facing criticism from young Africans who feel the AU has not done enough to address their concerns.

Why it matters

The African Union plays a central role in shaping policies and priorities for the continent, but has faced growing calls from youth activists to be more responsive to issues like unemployment, climate change, and democratic governance.

The details

The AU summit in Addis Ababa will bring together heads of state and government from the organization's 55 member states. On the agenda are discussions around economic integration, security challenges, and institutional reforms. But the event has also drawn protests from young Africans who argue the AU has been slow to tackle the continent's most pressing problems.

  • The African Union summit is taking place this weekend (February 14-16, 2026) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The players

African Union

The main regional political and economic union of 55 member states located on the African continent.

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What they’re saying

“The AU has not done enough to address the concerns of young Africans on issues like unemployment, climate change, and democracy.”

— Youth Activist

What’s next

The summit is expected to produce a communique outlining the AU's priorities and action plans for the coming year.

The takeaway

The African Union faces growing pressure from its youthful population to be more responsive to their needs and aspirations as it charts the continent's future direction.