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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – As the African Union (AU) holds its annual summit this weekend, a growing disconnect between the organization and the continent’s youth is becoming increasingly apparent. Despite representing the world’s youngest population, with over 400 million people aged 15 to 35, many African youths express disillusionment with the AU, viewing it as a body dominated by aging leaders who prioritize governmental interests over the needs of their citizens.

Established to “promote the unity and solidarity of the African States,” the AU is facing a legitimacy crisis as several nations grapple with military coups, contested elections, and protests fueled by economic hardship and diminishing foreign aid. This discontent is particularly visible on social media, where the AU is often labeled as ‘a bloc of classic leaders’ seemingly detached from the realities faced by younger generations.

The perception of a disconnect stems, in part, from the paradox of Africa’s demographic landscape: a rapidly growing youth population alongside some of the longest-serving leaders on the continent. This imbalance has contributed to political instability, including a recent surge in coups, and a growing sense of frustration among young Africans who perceive their voices are not being heard.

“What the youth is really asking and why people are frustrated is since this is not an African Union for citizens. It’s not a people-driven African Union,” explained Liesl Louw-Vaudran, a senior analyst with the Crisis Group. The organization, critics argue, has historically focused on governments and leaders, missing opportunities to prioritize citizen-centered policies and address the pressing concerns of its young population.

Elections and the AU’s Response

Recent elections across the continent have further fueled these concerns. A pattern of sidelined opposition candidates, disputed results, and protests led by young voters following the reelection of incumbents has raised questions about the AU’s commitment to democratic principles. In several instances, the AU has been accused of swiftly recognizing contested election outcomes while being slow to address alleged irregularities.

The situation in Uganda during its presidential election in January serves as a stark example. Despite reports of internet shutdowns, clampdowns on the opposition, and allegations of harassment, intimidation, and arrest of opposition leaders, candidates, supporters, media, and civic society actors – as noted in the AU election observer mission’s preliminary report – the African Union Commission initially “commended” the conduct of the poll. This response drew sharp criticism from Ugandan youth, with some labeling the AU a “dictatorship club.”

Challenges to Enforcement and Accountability

Beyond elections, the AU faces ongoing challenges in enforcing its resolutions and holding member states accountable. According to Macharia Munene, a professor of history at the United States International University in Nairobi, this is due, in part, to the fact that “not all members meet their dues or fully accept what is generally decided.” This lack of consistent financial support and commitment undermines the AU’s ability to effectively address critical issues across the continent.

In Nigeria, resident Chima Ekwueme expressed a sentiment echoed by many: the AU appears indifferent to holding leaders accountable for issues like security crises and economic hardship, despite the country’s vast mineral wealth. “They are there for their own interests,” Ekwueme, 32, told The Associated Press. “In Nigeria, we have all it takes to position things in order (but) look at how difficult things are and where is the AU?”

A Summit Amid Shifting Global Dynamics

The 39th African Union Summit, currently underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is focused on the themes of water and sanitation, as well as the continent’s response to climate change and humanitarian crises exacerbated by cuts in foreign aid from partners like the United States. AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the need for stability, stating, “From Sudan to the Sahel, to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in Somalia and elsewhere, our people continue to pay the heavy price of instability.” He also called for an immediate halt to the “extermination” of the Palestinian people, receiving thanks from Mohammad Mustafa, Prime Minister of the State of Palestine.

As the AU seeks to align continental priorities with international partners amidst a changing global landscape, critics continue to urge the organization to prioritize internal challenges and demonstrate greater accountability to its citizens, particularly its increasingly vocal youth population. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the AU can bridge this gap and regain the trust of a generation that feels increasingly marginalized.

What steps will the African Union grab to address the concerns of its youth and ensure their meaningful participation in shaping the continent’s future? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

TESERO, Italy – A promising bid for gold in the women’s 4×7.5km cross-country relay dissolved into disappointment for Sweden on Saturday, as Ebba Andersson endured a harrowing leg marred by multiple falls and equipment failure. Despite Andersson’s struggles, Sweden ultimately secured a silver medal, finishing behind a dominant Norwegian team and ahead of Finland at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The dramatic events unfolded at the Tesero Cross-Country Stadium, leaving Andersson visibly shaken and taking responsibility for the team’s missed opportunity.

The pivotal moment came during Andersson’s leg, where a high-speed fall sent her tumbling, resulting in a broken ski binding. Forced to glide for approximately 400 meters on a single ski whereas awaiting a replacement, Andersson lost significant ground, effectively dashing Sweden’s hopes for victory. The incident occurred just before her scheduled exchange with Frida Karlsson, who could only watch the unfolding drama from the stadium monitors. This setback allowed Norway to surge ahead and claim the gold medal, marking their first women’s cross-country relay win at the Milan Cortina Games, as reported by the Associated Press.

Dramatic Falls Derail Swedish Hopes

Andersson described her performance as a “nightmare,” expressing a desire to rewind time and avoid the costly errors. “If I could wish for anything, I’d like to rewind the time,” she told reporters. She attributed her difficulties to becoming “far too passive on the downhill” after an initial fall, leading to the subsequent tumble and equipment malfunction. The challenging, slushy conditions on the course, caused by rainy weather, contributed to the treacherous conditions faced by the athletes, as detailed by NBC Olympics.

Despite the devastating setback, Karlsson managed to claw back some ground, finishing eighth and reducing the deficit to Norway. Jonna Sundling then brought Sweden back to claim the silver medal, finishing approximately 50 seconds behind the victorious Norwegian team. Finland secured the bronze medal, approximately 1 minute and 14 seconds behind Norway, celebrating their first Olympic medal in this event since 2014.

Norwegian Team Capitalizes on Sweden’s Misfortune

The Norwegian team, comprised of Kristin Austgulen Fosnaes, Astrid Oeyre Slind, Karoline Simpson-Larsen, and Heidi Weng, capitalized on Sweden’s misfortune to secure a commanding victory, finishing in a time of 1 hour and 15 minutes. Weng crossed the finish line to seal the gold, marking a significant achievement for Norway in women’s cross-country skiing. Slind acknowledged the drama unfolding ahead of them, stating, “I actually didn’t realize there was so much drama,” but expressed confidence in their lead, according to nbcolympics.com.

Andersson, despite her disappointment, took full responsibility for the team’s failure to secure the gold. “I can’t really blame anyone but myself,” she said. “I didn’t react well enough in that moment and that’s how it turned out.” She dismissed concerns about any physical injuries, stating, “No physical damage, only in my heart.”

Looking Ahead: Recovery and Reflection for Sweden

The Swedish team will now focus on recovery and reflection as they move forward in the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of cross-country skiing and the importance of maintaining composure in challenging conditions. The team’s ability to salvage a silver medal despite the adversity demonstrates their resilience and determination. The focus will likely shift to analyzing the conditions and Andersson’s performance to prevent similar incidents in future competitions.

What are your thoughts on the dramatic turn of events in the women’s relay? Share your comments below and join the discussion. Don’t forget to share this article with fellow winter sports enthusiasts!