African Union peace and security architecture: Interrogating the efficacy of the PSC in East Africa in the case of Sudan RSF vs SAF 2023-2025

Abstract

This research investigates the African Union Peace and Security Council's efficiency in responding to conflicts, with a particular emphasis on the Sudanese civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from 2023 to 2025. While current literature has comprehensively analysed the PSC's institutional design, there is still a gap in understanding its operational effectiveness inexternally driven and fragmented conflict contexts. The research uses a qualitative research design, with secondary data sources that include academic literature, policy reports, and institutional documents. Using New Institutionalism as a theoretical framework, the analysis evaluates the PSC's actions based on important concepts such as path dependency, institutional norms, and political restrictions. The findings reveal that, while the PSC has established comprehensive normative frameworks, such as the AU PSC Roadmap and engagement with initiatives like the Jeddah Declaration, its effectiveness is severely hampered by limited enforcement mechanisms, financial dependencies on external actors, and a lack of political will among member states. Furthermore, the presence of multiple mediation frameworks has led to institutional fragmentation, diminishing coherence in conflict resolution attempts. The study concludes that the PSC is institutionally strong but operationally restricted. It adds to the literature by demonstrating how institutional limitations within the APSA impede the implementation of peace initiatives in complex conflict settings, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination, enforcement capacity, and political commitment to improve the PSC's effectiveness.