Opinion
Lessons in economic integration for the African Union
“It can learn how to delegate coordinated activities aimed at improved regional integration to sub-regional entities that firstly produce improved results, and secondly cut out duplication.”
However, Links suggested that Africa could learn not just from the practices of the European Union, but also from its values.
He said three had stood out during his dealings with Brussels, namely respect for human rights, respect for the rule of law, and good governance, with the latter basically referring to corruption.
“Living in South Africa today these principles of democracy have become very obvious and imperative in our struggle to achieve our full potential as a democracy,” he said.
“Sometimes the source from where the advice comes clouds our willingness to accept it as good for us. We can do a lot more for the people of Africa if we strive diligently towards respecting and practicing these fundamentals in our society.”
Mare suggested that the African Union should focus on areas of cooperation which are realistic and which will bring benefits.
“A key lesson is for the African Union not to waste too much time on regional topics such as coordinated foreign affairs for the African Union, or on a common monetary union – just think of the Euro,” he concluded.
