The Wilson Center hosted a conversation on “Policing in Africa: Imperatives to Peacebuilding,” with Southern Voices Network for Peacebuilding scholar Meressa Kahsu Dessu on May 15, from 2-3pm E.T. (US). 

Police forces in AU member states are all facing challenges, that are reshaping and redefining the purpose and operations of African police organizations. Whether it be in confronting their own historical legacy, facing growing organized criminal networks, or confronting terrorism and violent conflict, African continental policing institutions like AFRIPOL, the African Standby Force, and the AU Peace Support Operations are at a critical juncture where they must navigate complex social contexts, while striving to address the gaps between policing practices and desired standards to maintain order and protect citizens. 

Mr. Meressa Kahsu Dessu discussed the need for a stronger and more unified continental police organization within the African Union to mitigate ongoing, emerging, and new security challenges across the continent. The conversation included policy recommendations for AU member states, and regional and international stakeholders to establish stronger mechanisms for continental policing.