African Union Strategic Response Against Terrorism in Africa: The Case of Somalia

Abstract

Terrorism remains a critical global security challenge, with African nations facing some of its most severe consequences. The African Union (AU) has played a central role in counterterrorism efforts, particularly in addressing the threats posed by extremist groups such as Al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). This paper critically examines the AU’s counterterrorism strategies, focusing on Somalia, where Al-Shabaab continues to threaten regional stability. The study assesses the effectiveness of AU-led initiatives, including intelligence-sharing mechanisms, joint military operations, and diplomatic interventions.