Background and Context

The Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) is an advisory organ of the African Union (AU) whose purpose is to actively engage civil society in the processes and work of the AU, particularly with regard to Africa’s integration and development. ECOSOCC functions as a bridge through which the African Union can partner and engage with civil society organisations (CSOs) on the continent and in the Diaspora. In accordance with the definition approved under the ECOSOCC Statutes by the Executive Council in Assembly/AU/ Dec.48 (III), the term “CSOs” includes social and professional organisations in the African Diaspora.