The Panel of the Wise (Panel) is one of the new mechanisms at the disposal of the AU and exemplifies the organisation’s attempt at prioritising the prevention of conflict in Africa.
This paper discusses the newly established Panel, commencing with an overview of its workings, and particularly its mandate, modalities of action, membership, relationship with other relevant organs at the AU, and the structure designed to support the Panel in carrying out its mandate. This is followed by a discussion of the activities undertaken by the Panel thus far. The paper concludes with some observations and recommendations for a further enhancement of the Panel’s contribution to peace, security and stability on the continent.
Key findings:
- Panel members were not only given the responsibility of contributing to ongoing efforts to secure peace, security and stability on the continent but also, as its first members, the responsibility of ensuring that this new structure works as efficiently as possible. The past year provided the Panel with an opportunity to explore what works, what does not and exactly what support it requires. Given the initial delay in the operationalisation of the Panel, it is essential that dealing with outstanding issues is prioritised. Most crucial amongst these issues is the structuring and staffing of the mediation unit, as an independent structure in the Department of Peace and Security of the Commission. Having dedicated mediation experts to provide assistance not only to the Panel but also to other AU structures, will enhance the organisation’s efforts at conflict prevention, resolution and management. Such a unit could lead the implementation of the mediation strategy that is currently being drafted, thereby ensuring consistency and coordination in efforts. Coordination appears to be the key to the success of the Panel’s work, although it must remain vigilant that this does not hinder its ability to undertake activities on its own initiative, should it feel the need to do so. The matter of its own secretariat with a number of staff dedicated to coordinating with other AU departments as well as to organising the Panel’s activities needs to be finalised urgently.
- Another pertinent issue that needs to be finalised is the modalities of the Panel’s engagements in conflict situations. In this process the Panel must take into account the mediation strategy that is currently being drafted, as this provides a holistic framework for peace-making efforts by the AU. Having clear modalities that inform the Panel’s engagement in selected situations will make it possible for other stakeholders, such as civil society actors, to assess how best it could contribute to the Panel’s efforts. A communication strategy will further contribute to this. Limiting the sometimes necessary ‘culture of secrecy’ to the bare essentials will facilitate a greater understanding of the Panel’s work and open up possibilities for collaboration. In one or two years’ time this will also allow a proper assessment of the Panel’s contributions and its impact on peace on the African continent.
