Statutes of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union

Adopted in July 2004 As revised in February 2026

PREAMBLE

We, Member States of the African Union:

CONVINCED that popular participation in the activities of the African Union, as enunciated in the African Charter for Popular Participation in Development and Transformation of 1990, is a prerequisite for its success;

RECALLING the founding objectives and principles enshrined in the Constitutive Act of the African Union, particularly the commitment to ensuring the participation of African peoples in the activities of the African Union;

FURTHER RECALLING the establishment of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council “ECOSOCC” under Articles 5(1) and 22 of the Constitutive Act as an advisory organ of the African Union composed of civil society organisations, to serve as the principal interface between Member States of the African Union and African peoples;

TAKING INTO ACCOUNT Agenda 2063’s vision of a people-centred and people-driven Africa that involves citizens in decision-making in social, economic, political, cultural and environmental spheres;

ACKNOWLEDGING the indispensable role of civil society organisations within Africa and the African Diaspora in fulfilling the aspirations of Agenda 2063, contributing to economic development, social cohesion, and innovation;

RECALLING Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.393(XVIII) adopted by the 18th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government in January 2012, which recognised the African Diaspora as the sixth region of the African Union, encouraged its active participation in the African Union’s development and integration, and requested the African Union Commission to develop a framework for its representation and accreditation within African Union structures and processes, in line with previous decisions of the Policy Organs;

RECALLING Decision EX.CL/Dec.849(XXV) adopted by the 25th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council in June 2014, calling for an in-depth study on the effectiveness and efficiency of ECOSOCC and recommendations to revamp its operations in alignment with the African Union’s reform process;

ALSO RECALLING Decision EX.CL/Dec.890(XXVII) adopted by the 27th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council in June 2015 urging ECOSOCC to pursue actively a harmonised mechanism and clear criteria for granting African Union Consultative and Observer Status to civil society organisations in Africa, and to mobilise national and regional organisations in alignment with Agenda 2063;

FURTHER RECALLING Decision EX.CL/Dec.1157(XL) on the in-depth study report of ECOSOCC adopted by the 40th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council in February 2022 requesting a comprehensive and holistic review of ECOSOCC’s legal instruments, including the Statute and Rules of Procedure;

COGNISANT of Decision EX.CL/Dec.1199(XLII) on the Institutional Frameworks for Effective CSO Engagement with the African Union adopted by the 42nd Ordinary Session of the Executive

Council in February 2023 endorsing the Institutional Framework on the Establishment and Operations of ECOSOCC National Chapters;

ALSO COGNISANT of Decision EX.CL/Dec.1286(XLV) on the review of ECOSOCC’s Legal Instruments and Institutional Frameworks for Effective CSO Engagement with the African Union adopted by the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council in February 2025 acknowledging the revised African Union Harmonised Mechanism for the Granting of Observer and Consultative Status to Civil Society Organisations and endorsing the Institutional Framework for the Representation of Diaspora CSOs in ECOSOCC and urging ECOSOCC to expedite its operationalisation while also directing ECOSOCC to commence the validation process for its draft legal instruments and to present the text at the next session of the STC on Justice and Legal Affairs;

GUIDED by our shared vision of a united and robust Africa, and by the imperative to collaborate with all segments of civil society, particularly women and the youth, and the private sector, in bolstering solidarity and cohesion amongst our peoples;

RECOGNISING that ECOSOCC’s advisory and advocacy functions are complementary and mutually reinforcing;

HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION IGENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1Definitions

In this Statute, unless the context otherwise provides:

“African Diaspora” means peoples of African origin living outside the continent, irrespective of their citizenship and nationality, who are willing to contribute to the development of the continent and the building of the AU or as otherwise defined by the Policy Organs;

“African Diaspora CSO” means CSOs representing and/or comprised of the African Diaspora registered outside the continent;

“Assembly” means the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU;

“AU” means the African Union;

“Commission” means the African Union Commission;

“Constitutive Act” means the Constitutive Act of the AU;

“Consultative Status” means the status granted to CSOs in accordance with the criteria and procedures set out in the Harmonised Accreditation Framework;

“Credentials Committee” means the Credentials Committee of ECOSOCC;

“CSO” means a civil society organisation established and registered in a Member State in accordance with applicable national laws and regulations or an African Diaspora CSO;

“CSO operating at the continental level” means a CSO registered and undertaking activities in at least three (3) Member States across two (2) or more regions of the AU;

“CSO operating at the regional level” means a CSO registered and undertaking activities in at least two (2) Member States within a region of the AU;

“Designated Representative” means the duly designated representative of an ECOSOCC Member and classified as a non-elected official per the AU’s Staff Regulations and Rules;

“Disciplinary Committee” means the Disciplinary Committee of ECOSOCC;

“ECOSOCC Member” means a recognised CSO from a Member State and the African Diaspora elected or nominated to serve in the General Assembly;

“ECOSOCC” means the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the AU;

“Executive Council” means the Executive Council of the AU;

“General Assembly” means the General Assembly of ECOSOCC;

“Harmonised Accreditation Framework” means the African Union Harmonised Mechanism for the Granting of Observer and Consultative Status to Civil Society Organisations;

“Interfaith Group” means CSOs that bring together people from different faiths and belief systems to foster dialogue and cooperation for shared goals in the areas of supporting peace and human rights in the attainment of inclusive development in Africa;

“Member State” means a Member State of the AU;

“Observer Status” means the accreditation status granted under the AU Harmonised Accreditation Framework;

“Policy Organs” means the Assembly and the Executive Council, and, where applicable, STCs;

“Rules of Procedure” means the ECOSOCC Rules of Procedure as adopted by the General Assembly;

“Sectoral Cluster Committee” means a Sectoral Cluster Committee of ECOSOCC;

“Sixth Region” means the African Diaspora;

“Standing Committee” means the Standing Committee of ECOSOCC;

“STCs” means the Specialised Technical Committees of the AU, established under Articles 5(1) and 15 of the Constitutive Act.

Article 2Objectives

ECOSOCC shall have the following objectives:

a)provide advisory opinions, technical expertise and policy inputs that align with the AU’s strategic goals;

b)enhance effective participation of CSOs in shaping and implementing the AU’s policies and programmes;

c)support civil society organisations with the necessary institutional, human, and operational capacities to contribute to the AU’s mission;

d)promote partnerships between governments and all segments of civil society, and foster an environment that enables continuous constructive dialogue on issues concerning Africa and its future;

e)contribute to a peaceful, secure, stable, and prosperous Africa through the advancement of policies and programmes that foster continental development and integration, including the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and African Governance Architecture (AGA);

f)promote and defend a culture that upholds democratic principles, good governance, popular participation, human rights, social justice, and gender equality; and

g)create awareness of, and promote, implement, and advocate for, the domestication of Agenda 2063 among African peoples.

Article 3Functions

1.ECOSOCC shall have the following functions:

a)issue advisory opinions and reports at the request of Policy Organs and other organs of the AU, or on its own initiative, in accordance with Article 44 of this Statute, to aid in the effective translation of the AU’s objectives, principles, and policies into actionable programmes, and evaluate their implementation and effectiveness.

b)conduct studies as recommended by any organ of the AU, focusing on areas aligned with the AU’s goals, and submit recommendations as appropriate.

c)serve as the central representation for the engagement of CSOs within the AU, ensuring a coherent and coordinated approach, including:

i.developing and implementing the Harmonised Accreditation Framework, in collaboration with the Commission and other organs of the AU;

ii.issuing Consultative Status to duly accredited CSOs in accordance with the Harmonised Accreditation Framework;

iii.maintaining a database of legislative frameworks governing CSOs in Member States towards developing a Model Law, in accordance with AU rules and procedures, to guide Member States;

iv.collaborating with national CSO authorities in Member States to ensure effective coordination and compliance with the National ECOSOCC Chapter Framework;

v.presenting a biennial report to the Assembly on the status of AU-CSO relations.

d)foster and consolidate partnerships between the AU, CSOs, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Regional Mechanisms, and the African Diaspora, through effective public sensitisation, engagement, mobilisation, and feedback on the activities and initiatives of the AU.

e)foster engagements between the AU, CSOs, and relevant international and intergovernmental organisations, including within multilateral fora, on matters falling within ECOSOCC’s mandate.

f)promote popular participation of CSOs by disseminating and advancing the AU’s vision and objectives and encouraging the sharing of best practices and expertise across various domains.

g)advocate and defend the AU’s shared values including human rights, the rule of law, good governance, and gender equality.

h)promote and support efforts of institutions engaged in the review and envisioning of Africa’s future, forging pan-African values to enhance an African social model and way of life.

i)strengthen the institutional capacities of CSOs through the design and implementation of targeted initiatives, including training programmes, the development of manuals and toolkits, the provision of technical assistance, and the establishment of knowledge- sharing platforms.

j)enhance the operational, advocacy, and policy engagement capacities of CSOs in alignment with the objectives of the AU.

k)monitor from a civil society perspective, the implementation of AU policies, decisions, and programmes, and report findings to the Policy Organs, with a view to promoting accountability, transparency, and alignment with the AU’s shared values.

l)organise a CSOs pre-Summit to deliberate on the forthcoming AU theme of the year and its implications for African peoples.

2.ECOSOCC shall also perform any other functions that may be referred to it by the Policy Organs or as required to fulfil its functions under paragraph 1 of this Article.

Article 4Guiding Principles

ECOSOCC shall function in accordance with the following guiding principles:

a)uphold and promote the shared values, traditions, and norms from the AU’s treaty and policy instruments;

b)serve as the primary mechanism for CSOs to provide strategic policy advice and technical expertise to the Policy Organs and other AU entities;

c)ensure a coherent and unified approach in granting Consultative and Observer Status to CSOs, through the Harmonised Accreditation Framework, thus centralising engagement and streamlining CSO interaction with the AU;

d)enhance the role of CSOs in shaping the AU’s policies and programmes by facilitating their participation and effective engagement;

e)operate with full transparency and accountability, ensuring timely information dissemination, and open interaction with all stakeholders, and adhering to evidence- based decision-making;

f)act as a bridge between governments, CSOs, and other key stakeholders, promoting collaboration and continuous dialogue;

g)add value to the continental development and integration process, through the support of forward-thinking initiatives, and by promoting best practices and expertise;

h)ensure that resources and capacities are leveraged effectively to fulfil its mission in line with relevant AU legal frameworks; and

i)respect the principle of confidentiality in its operations, balancing the need for transparency with the protection of sensitive information.

SECTION IIFOUNDATION

Article 5Legal Status and Personality

1.ECOSOCC derives its juridical personality from and through the AU.

2.ECOSOCC shall have the legal capacity to:

a)enter into agreements;

b)acquire and dispose of movable and immovable property; and

c)institute and defend legal proceedings.

Article 6Flag, Anthem, Logo and Intellectual Property Rights

1.ECOSOCC shall use the Flag and Anthem of the AU for its official business.

2.ECOSOCC shall have its own logo, official stamp, letterhead, and seal.

3.No one shall be permitted to possess or use ECOSOCC’s intellectual property without the express permission of the Secretariat.

4.All applicable intellectual property rights for any work produced by ECOSOCC Members or Designated Representatives as part of their official duties shall be vested in ECOSOCC and shall be governed by applicable internal rules and regulations of the AU.

Article 7Headquarters of ECOSOCC

1.The Headquarters of ECOSOCC shall be in Lusaka, Republic of Zambia.

2.ECOSOCC shall enter into and maintain a host agreement with the Government of the Republic of Zambia regarding the provision of and maintenance of its premises, facilities, services, privileges, and immunities, for its efficient operations.

SECTION IIIMEMBERSHIP AND REPRESENTATION

Article 8Composition

1.ECOSOCC shall be composed of CSOs, including the following:

a)Social Groups, including those representing women, children, the youth, the elderly, and people with disability;

b)Professional Groups, such as associations of artists, engineers, health practitioners, social workers, media, teachers, sport associations, legal professionals, social scientists, academia, business organisations, national chambers of commerce, workers, employers, industry, and agriculture, as well as other private sector interest groups; and

c)Non-governmental Organisations and Community-based Organisations;

d)Cultural Organisations and Interfaith Groups.

2.The Membership of ECOSOCC shall be as follows:

a)Three (3) CSOs operating at national level from each Member State;

b)Ten (10) CSOs operating at regional level, two (2) per region;

c)Eight (8) CSOs operating at continental level;

d)Twenty (20) African Diaspora CSOs; and

e)Six (6) CSOs, in an ex-officio capacity, nominated by the Chairperson of the Commission in consultation with Member States and upon the recommendation of the ECOSOCC Secretariat. The nomination must ensure equitable regional representation and prioritise organisations with demonstrated expertise in empowering marginalised and vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, the elderly and communities affected by conflict or climate-induced displacement.

3.ECOSOCC Members shall be duly accredited by the Credentials Committee.

4.The thematic areas of focus for CSOs at the national level shall serve as the primary basis for their election and subsequent roles in advancing the objectives of ECOSOCC.

5.In accordance with paragraph 4 of this Article:

a)all CSOs at the national level shall operate in at least one (1) of the fields covered by the Sectoral Cluster Committees, in accordance with Article 26 of this Statute; and

b)of the three (3) national-level CSOs to be elected under paragraph 2(a) of this Article, at least one (1) shall be a CSO specifically addressing issues related to women’s empowerment or youth and shall be represented by a Designated Representative who is either a woman or a youth, respectively. Other youth- or women-focused CSOs, not elected under this specific requirement, may still seek election into ECOSOCC through the remaining national, regional, continental, or African Diaspora categories provided under paragraph 2 of this Article.

Article 9Criteria for Membership

1.CSOs seeking membership in ECOSOCC shall comply with the following eligibility criteria:

a)be a national, regional, continental, or African Diaspora CSO, without restriction to undertake regional or international activities;

b)registration and status:

i.provide proof of valid registration as an African CSO in a Member State or as an African Diaspora CSO, for at least three (3) years preceding the submission of the application, including proof of continuous operations throughout this period;

ii.be a member of a National ECOSOCC Chapter, in the case of national, regional, and continental CSOs;

iii.have Consultative Status in accordance with the Harmonised Accreditation Framework; and iv. for CSOs operating at the regional or continental levels, provide proof of registration and operations in at least two (2) Member States within a Region, or across two (2) or more regions of the Continent, respectively;

c)submit the most recent annual audit statements by an independent auditing firm, including information on funding sources, issued no later than two (2) years prior to the application for membership;

d)provide proof that the ownership and management of the CSO consists of not less than fifty per cent (50%) of Africans or of the African Diaspora;

e)provide proof that substantially or at least fifty per cent (50%) of the CSO’s basic resources are derived from contributions at the national level or African institutions; and

f)where external voluntary contributions have been received, their amounts and grant partners shall be faithfully revealed in the application for membership. Any financial or other support or contribution, direct or indirect, from any source to the CSO shall be declared and fully recorded in the financial records of the CSO.

2.CSOs seeking membership in ECOSOCC shall comply with the following additional requirements:

a)have objectives and principles that are consistent with the principles and objectives of the AU as set out in Articles 3 and 4 of the Constitutive Act;

b)demonstrate proficiency in thematic areas relevant to ECOSOCC’s mandate and, to that end, provide proof of operations in a Member State, or in the case of an African Diaspora CSO, in the African Diaspora, in one or more of the thematic areas of the Sectoral Cluster Committees in the two (2) years preceding the application, in accordance with Article 26 of this Statute; and

c)for CSOs operating at the regional or continental levels, provide proof of said operations in at least two (2) Member States within a region, or across two (2) or more regions of the continent, respectively.

3.CSOs that discriminate on any basis inconsistent with AU values and principles, including religion, gender, tribe, ethnic, racial, or political affiliation, are ineligible for election to ECOSOCC.

4.CSOs nominated by the Chairperson of the Commission in accordance with Article 8(2)(e) of this Statute shall also comply with the eligibility criteria in this Article, as appropriate.

Article 10Membership Rights and Obligations

1.Elected CSOs shall form part of the General Assembly and attend its meetings and those of other relevant AU Organs and Institutions, upon invitation.

2.ECOSOCC Members shall have the right to access relevant ECOSOCC documentation and receive logistical support, where possible, in accordance with AU regulations and rules.

3.ECOSOCC Members shall be entitled to transparency, accountability, and non-discriminatory treatment in ECOSOCC's operations, as well as other applicable rights and entitlements in accordance with AU regulations and rules.

4.ECOSOCC Members shall adhere to the following obligations:

a)participate actively in the activities and initiatives of ECOSOCC, contributing to its objectives and policies;

b)maintain open channels of communication with the Secretariat, responding promptly to information requests, calls for participation, and other pertinent matters;

c)notify ECOSOCC without delay of any developments that might impact their membership eligibility or the integrity of their representation, including but not limited to de-registration, organisational changes, leadership transitions, or shifts in operational focus;

d)respect and uphold AU’s intellectual property rights;

e)adhere to ECOSOCC’s Code of Ethics and Conduct, as well as all applicable ethical standards and guidelines established by ECOSOCC and the AU; and

f)ensure that their Designated Representative also fulfils the obligations outlined in this Article.

5.ECOSOCC Members alleged to have violated the aforementioned obligations shall be referred to the Disciplinary Committee in accordance with Article 33 of this Statute.

Article 11Cessation of Membership

1.Membership in the General Assembly shall cease at the expiration of the term, resignation, termination due to failure to maintain the eligibility criteria, or other loss of membership in accordance with this Statute, the Rules of Procedure, and any applicable AU regulations and rules.

2.The Secretariat shall promptly notify all relevant parties of any cessation of membership and document the circumstances leading to such cessation. Any necessary adjustments to the composition of the General Assembly shall be made in accordance with the established rules and procedures.

3.All actions related to the cessation of membership, including the procedure for resignation or termination and the filling of vacant positions, shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure.

Article 12Designated Representatives

1.Each ECOSOCC Member shall be represented by a Designated Representative and an alternate. Modalities for designating representatives shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure. All actions related to representation and designation shall be undertaken with strict adherence to the said Rules.

2.Designated Representatives shall be personnel of the ECOSOCC Member and shall possess high morality, integrity, impartiality, and demonstrable competence in the ECOSOCC Member’s thematic focus.

Article 13Rights and Obligations of Designated Representatives

1.Designated Representatives shall have the right to participate in meetings, propose motions, and engage in other activities on behalf of the ECOSOCC Members, in accordance with this Statute and the Rules of Procedure.

2.ECOSOCC shall provide necessary orientation and technical support to the Designated Representatives to enable their effective participation.

3.ECOSOCC Membership is voluntary and shall be on a non-remunerative basis. Participation by Designated Representatives shall be guided by the spirit of Pan-Africanism and a shared commitment to advancing the objectives, values, and programmes of the AU.

4.Designated Representatives shall adhere to the following obligations:

a)upon the election of their ECOSOCC Member or upon their designation, undertake an oath of office or affirmation indicating their commitment to uphold the principles and objectives of the AU and ECOSOCC in accordance with Article 15 of this Statute;

b)participate actively in the activities and initiatives of ECOSOCC, contributing to its objectives and policies;

c)attend all relevant sessions and meetings, fulfil any assigned tasks or roles, and maintain an open channel of communication with both the Secretariat and their ECOSOCC Member;

d)keep their ECOSOCC Member promptly informed of all relevant activities, decisions, and developments within ECOSOCC;

e)act in a transparent and accountable manner, adhering to ECOSOCC's Code of Ethics and Conduct and any other ethical guidelines established by ECOSOCC and the AU;

f)avoid any conflict between professional and personal interests or obligations that may unduly influence the impartial exercise of their official duties or responsibilities, including refraining from publicly displaying interests or engaging in activities related

to partisan politics that are inconsistent with the values, principles, mandate, and mission of the AU; and

g)upon the end of their tenure or any substantial changes in their role, ensure a smooth transition by transferring all relevant information and documentation to their successor and their ECOSOCC Member.

5.A Designated Representative may serve in a maximum of two (2) General Assemblies. Changes in employment status, affiliation, or geographic location shall not constitute exceptions to this limitation. A Designated Representative may also serve in a maximum of two (2) terms within ECOSOCC governance structures.

6.Designated Representatives alleged to have violated the aforementioned obligations shall be referred to the Disciplinary Committee in accordance with Article 33 of this Statute.

7.All questions concerning the validity of the credentials of any Designated Representative shall be submitted in writing to the Secretariat, which shall promptly transmit the relevant credentials and accompanying questions to the Credentials Committee for consideration within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt.

Article 14Revocation and Termination of Designated Representatives

1.ECOSOCC Members may recall and replace their Designated Representatives by submitting written notice to the Secretariat, which shall inform the Credentials Committee, in line with internal procedures and ECOSOCC guidelines.

2.ECOSOCC may, through the Standing Committee, revoke a Designated Representative’s designated status due to misconduct or other infractions, subject to a determination by the Disciplinary Committee, in accordance with Article 33 of this Statute.

3.In the event of revocation or recall of a Designated Representative, ECOSOCC Members shall promptly designate a new representative in accordance with the Rules of Procedure.

4.The Secretariat shall maintain a record of all Designated Representatives and any changes to ensure accurate communication and engagement.

5.All actions related to the revocation or recall of a Designated Representative, including the process for addressing allegations of misconduct by representatives, shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure and ECOSOCC’s Code of Ethics and Conduct.

Article 15Oath of office

1.Upon election or designation, each ECOSOCC Member shall take an oath or affirmation of office, which shall be set out in the Rules of Procedure, signifying a commitment to uphold the principles, objectives, and rules governing ECOSOCC and the AU.

2.Failure to take the oath in the prescribed manner may result in disqualification. The oaths shall be recorded and kept in an official register maintained by the Secretariat, with a copy retained by the ECOSOCC Member.

SECTION IVELECTIONS

Article 16Elections

1.ECOSOCC shall hold General Elections at the expiry of the mandate of the General Assembly to elect CSOs for the reconstituted General Assembly. Elections at the national level shall be undertaken by the National ECOSOCC Chapters. All elections at the national, regional, continental, and African Diaspora levels shall be undertaken in accordance with this Statute, the Rules of Procedure, and the ECOSOCC Election Guidelines.

2.ECOSOCC shall hold Mid-Term Elections according to the same procedure for General Elections to fill any vacant positions.

3.Elections shall be conducted in accordance with the Rules of Procedure and ECOSOCC Election Guidelines. The election of the twenty (20) African Diaspora CSOs shall be in accordance with the Institutional Framework for the Representation of Diaspora CSOs in ECOSOCC.

4.The designation of the six (6) ex-officio ECOSOCC Members by the Chairperson of the Commission pursuant to Article 8(2)(e) of this Statute shall occur prior to the convening of the reconstituted General Assembly.

5.Elections to the Bureau of the General Assembly and other structures of ECOSOCC shall be undertaken in accordance with the Rules of Procedure.

SECTION VADMINISTRATION AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

Article 17Structure

ECOSOCC shall be composed of the following structures:

a)General Assembly;

b)Standing Committee;

c)Sectoral Cluster Committees;

d)Credentials Committee;

e)Disciplinary Committee;

f)Secretariat; and

g)National ECOSOCC Chapters.

Article 18General Assembly

The General Assembly shall be the highest decision and policy-making body of ECOSOCC and shall report to the Assembly.

Article 19Functions of the General Assembly

1.The functions of the General Assembly shall be to:

a)provide political leadership and strategic guidance and oversight to ECOSOCC;

b)elect members of the Bureau of the General Assembly, Chairpersons of the Sectoral Cluster Committees, the Credentials Committee, and the Disciplinary Committee, and oversee their work;

c)constitute the Standing Committee and oversee their work;

d)submit proposals on the budget and activities of ECOSOCC;

e)determine the criteria and modalities for granting CSOs Observer Status to ECOSOCC, and review and grant requests for Observer Status in accordance with those criteria;

f)adopt and amend the Rules of Procedure of ECOSOCC in compliance with this Statute;

g)approve and amend ECOSOCC’s Code of Ethics and Conduct;

h)review the activities of ECOSOCC and propose appropriate recommendations; and

i)perform any other functions as may be assigned by AU Policy Organs.

2.A performance management system shall be established for the General Assembly in furtherance of its mandate.

Article 20Election and Term of Office of General Assembly

1.ECOSOCC Members shall be elected or nominated in accordance with Article 16 of this Statute and the Rules of Procedure.

2.Each General Assembly shall have a mandate of four (4) years. The term of office of ECOSOCC Members shall run concurrently with the mandate of the General Assembly to which they are elected or nominated.

3.Upon completion of two (2) mandates, whether consecutive or non-consecutive, the ECOSOCC Member shall be ineligible for re‑election or nomination for a period equivalent to two (2) full consecutive General Assembly mandates. Thereafter, the ECOSOCC Member shall become eligible to stand for election or nomination for a further two (2) mandates, upon the lapse of the ineligibility period, whereupon the same limitation and period of ineligibility shall apply mutatis mutandis.

4.This period of ineligibility shall apply uniformly across all categories of Membership and levels of representation.

Article 21Bureau of the General Assembly

1.The General Assembly shall elect, on the basis of equitable geographical distribution, regional rotation, and gender parity, a Bureau composed of six (6) members as follows:

a)a Presiding Officer; and

b)five (5) Deputy Presiding Officers.

2.Nominations for the Bureau shall be the outcome of regional consultations conducted within each of the five (5) regions of the AU and the African Diaspora as the sixth region, in accordance with ECOSOCC and other applicable AU procedures.

3.Eligibility for the position of Presiding Officer shall be restricted to Designated Representatives of ECOSOCC Members elected at the national, regional, or continental level, who have maintained ordinary residence in a Member State for at least three (3) years preceding the election. For the avoidance of doubt, Designated Representatives of ECOSOCC Members nominated by the Chairperson of the Commission in accordance with Article 8(2)(e) of this Statute shall be ineligible for election to the Bureau.

4.The term of office of the Bureau shall be two (2) years. They shall be eligible to compete for re-election for another term of two (2) years.

5.The Secretariat shall oversee the election of the Bureau of the General Assembly.

6.At the first meeting of the General Assembly, where the election of the Bureau is scheduled, it shall be the first agenda item.

7.For the election of the Bureau, the Secretariat shall receive the nomination of candidates and shall submit the list to the General Assembly.

Article 22Presiding Officer

1.The Presiding Officer, assisted by the Secretariat, shall perform the following functions:

a)convene, preside, and guide the proceedings of the General Assembly and the Standing Committee;

b)submit to a vote, where required, matters under discussion and announce the results of the vote taken;

c)represent the General Assembly and Standing Committee in conformity with this Statute and the Rules of Procedure between their sessions;

d)liaise and consult with Member States, the Commission, and other organs of the AU on issues concerning the effective functioning of ECOSOCC;

e)submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly, including achievements, challenges, lessons learned, and recommendations, at the final session of the General Assembly presided over by him or her;

f)submit the General Assembly’s End-Term Report to the AU Policy Organs;

g)undertake any other duties as may be assigned by the General Assembly.

2.If the Presiding Officer is absent from a meeting, or any part thereof, or is present but unable to preside, the eligible Deputy Presiding Officers, under Article 21 of this Statute, shall preside as designated by the Presiding Officer following regional rotation.

3.The designated Deputy Presiding Officer shall, in the absence of the Presiding Officer, act in the capacity of the Presiding Officer and shall have the same powers and duties as the Presiding Officer.

4.The Deputy Presiding Officers shall coordinate ECOSOCC activities in their respective regions and shall perform any other functions as may be delegated to them by the Presiding Officer.

5.The General Assembly, in consultation with the Presiding Officer and the Secretariat, may assign additional responsibilities to the Deputy Presiding Officers.

Article 23Standing Committee

1.The Standing Committee shall serve as the advisory and technical body of ECOSOCC and report to the General Assembly.

2.The Standing Committee shall be composed of the following:

a)the Bureau of the General Assembly;

b)Chairpersons of the Sectoral Cluster Committees; and

c)Executive Secretary and one (1) duly designated representative of the Secretariat, as ex-officio and non-voting members.

3.The Secretariat shall serve as secretariat of the Standing Committee.

Article 24Functions of the Standing Committee

The Standing Committee shall perform the following functions:

a)coordinate the work of the General Assembly;

b)prepare the meetings of the General Assembly;

c)consider and adopt advisory opinions and reports submitted from the Sectoral Cluster Committees, as appropriate;

d)oversee the implementation of ECOSOCC’s Code of Ethics and Conduct;

e)consider and adopt recommendations of the Disciplinary Committee and Credentials Committee;

f)prepare and submit annual reports of ECOSOCC to the Assembly; and

g)perform any other functions as may be assigned by the General Assembly.

Article 25Constitution and Term of Office of Standing Committee

1.The Standing Committee shall be constituted by the General Assembly in accordance with Article 19 of this Statute and the Rules of Procedure.

2.The term of office of the voting members of the Standing Committee shall be two (2) years. The voting members shall be eligible to compete for re-election for another term of two (2) years.

Article 26Sectoral Cluster Committees

1.There shall be Sectoral Cluster Committees to serve as the key operational mechanisms of ECOSOCC to formulate advisory opinions and reports and provide inputs into the policies and programmes of the AU.

2.The thematic focus of the Sectoral Cluster Committees shall align with those of the STCs, as may be amended from time to time.

3.Each Sectoral Cluster Committee shall be composed of the following:

a)ECOSOCC Members;

b)Associate CSOs, with Consultative Status, with specialised expertise relevant to the Committee's sectoral focus, serving on a pro bono basis without voting capacity; and

c)CSOs with specialised expertise relevant to the Committee's sectoral focus, which are not required to hold Consultative Status, serving on a pro bono basis without voting capacity.

4.Each ECOSOCC Member shall serve on at least one (1) Sectoral Cluster Committee, except where its Designated Representative holds the position of Presiding Officer. No ECOSOCC Member may serve on more than two (2) Sectoral Cluster Committees, except where there is a justifiable need to ensure fair representation of the Member States of the AU and the African Diaspora.

5.The Secretariat shall develop a list of eligible CSOs, in accordance with paragraph 3(b) of this Article, for each Sectoral Cluster Committee, to be submitted to the respective Committee for consideration and appointment as Associate CSOs.

Article 27Functions of the Sectoral Cluster Committees

The Sectoral Cluster Committees shall have the following functions:

a)prepare and submit advisory opinions and reports of ECOSOCC to the Standing Committee for consideration and approval, in accordance with the procedures outlined in Article 44 of this Statute;

b)participate in technical meetings of ECOSOCC, STCs, and other AU organs within their thematic focus, and provide inputs as appropriate;

c)promote AU instruments, programmes, policies, initiatives, and other activities, including Agenda 2063, falling within their thematic focus; and

d)perform any other functions as may be assigned by the General Assembly or the Standing Committee.

Article 28Election and Term of Office of Sectoral Cluster Committees

1.Each CSO shall indicate, at the time of application for election or nomination to ECOSOCC under Articles 9 and 16 of this Statute, a maximum of three (3) Sectoral Cluster Committees to which they wish to be assigned.

2.The Secretariat shall assign ECOSOCC Members to Sectoral Cluster Committees from among their indicated preferences under paragraph 1 of this Article, ensuring alignment with the ECOSOCC Member’s specialised focus and expertise. ECOSOCC Members shall serve on the assigned Committees for the duration of their term of office.

3.Each Sectoral Cluster Committee shall be headed by a Chairperson, who shall be elected by the General Assembly from among the Designated Representatives of the ECOSOCC Members of the respective Sectoral Cluster Committees, taking into consideration equitable gender representation, individual qualifications, and suitability for the particular post. The Chairpersons of the Sectoral Cluster Committees shall be distributed among the five regions of the AU and the African Diaspora.

4.The term of office of the Chairpersons of the Sectoral Cluster Committees shall be two (2) years. They shall be eligible to compete for re-election for another term of two (2) years.

Article 29Credentials Committee

1.There shall be a Credentials Committee, which shall operate independently and serve as the principal authority for verifying and validating the eligibility and credentials of applicants, ECOSOCC Members, and Designated Representatives, as well as for conducting any necessary examinations or reviews.

2.The Credentials Committee shall be composed of the following:

a)Five (5) former representatives of the General Assembly, of good moral standing and reputation, from the five regions of the AU, ensuring equitable gender representation;

b)One (1) former representative of the General Assembly, of good moral standing and reputation, from the African Diaspora;

c)One (1) representative from the Office of the Legal Counsel of the AU Commission (non-voting);

d)One (1) representative from the Office of Internal Oversight of the Commission (non- voting); and

e)Two (2) duly designated representatives of the Secretariat, as ex-officio and non- voting members.

3.The Secretariat shall serve as secretariat of the Credentials Committee.

4.The Credentials Committee may invite additional resource persons to provide technical guidance as necessary during its meetings.

Article 30Functions of the Credentials Committee

1.The Credentials Committee shall have the following functions:

a)examine the credentials of applicants seeking membership to the General Assembly and determine compliance with the eligibility criteria and standing to participate in the electoral process in accordance with Articles 9 and 16 of this Statute;

b)examine the credentials of ECOSOCC Members and their Designated Representatives and alternates, and those seeking posts in governance structures of ECOSOCC to ensure compliance with respective eligibility criteria in accordance with this Statute and Rules of Procedure;

c)examine the credentials of ECOSOCC Members and their Designated Representatives at each meeting of ECOSOCC to ensure continued compliance with respective eligibility criteria, as necessary; and

d)examine allegations concerning the credentials of an ECOSOCC Member or their Designated Representative, including cases of deregistration by a Member State.

2.The Credentials Committee shall submit its findings and recommendations for the consideration of the Standing Committee, which shall have the ultimate decision.

Article 31Election and Term of Office of the Credentials Committee

1.The General Assembly shall elect the Members of the Credentials Committee.

2.Nominations for the Credentials Committee shall be the outcome of regional consultations conducted within each of the five (5) regions of the AU and the African Diaspora, in accordance with Article 16 of this Statute.

3.The term of office of the voting Members of the Credentials Committee shall be four (4) years, non-renewable.

4.The Credentials Committee shall elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson from among the voting Members for a term of two (2) years, non-renewable, ensuring equitable gender representation and regional rotation.

5.The procedure for the election of Members to the Credentials Committee, including the election of its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure.

Article 32Disciplinary Committee

1.The Disciplinary Committee is hereby established to advise the Standing Committee on disciplinary offences and misconduct alleged against ECOSOCC Members or Designated Representatives.

2.The Disciplinary Committee shall operate independently and shall be empowered to conduct investigations, hearings, and make recommendations on disciplinary cases submitted for its consideration.

3.The Disciplinary Committee shall submit its findings and recommendations for the consideration of the Standing Committee, which shall have the ultimate decision. Any aggrieved party may appeal a decision of the Standing Committee on this matter with the Disciplinary Panel for Officials of the AU.

4.The Disciplinary Committee shall be composed of the following:

a)Five (5) former representatives of the General Assembly, of good moral standing and reputation, from the five regions of the AU, ensuring equitable gender representation;

b)One (1) former representative of the General Assembly, of good moral standing and reputation, from the African Diaspora;

c)One (1) representative from the Office of the Legal Counsel of the Commission (non- voting); and

d)One (1) representative from the Office of Internal Oversight of the Commission (non- voting).

5.The Secretariat shall serve as the secretariat of the Disciplinary Committee.

6.The Disciplinary Committee may invite additional resource persons to provide technical guidance as necessary during its meetings.

Article 33Functions of the Disciplinary Committee

1.The Disciplinary Committee shall evaluate complaints referred by:

a)the Credentials Committee on alleged disciplinary offences and misconduct by an ECOSOCC Member or Designated Representative concerning falsification of credentials or related issues; and

b)other ECOSOCC structures and third parties, through the Standing Committee, concerning alleged disciplinary offences and misconduct, or breaches of this Statute, the Rules of Procedure, ECOSOCC’s Code of Ethics and Conduct, and applicable regulations and rules of the AU by an ECOSOCC Member or Designated Representative.

2.The procedures of the Disciplinary Committee, including the applicable sanctions, shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure.

3.The Disciplinary Committee shall maintain comprehensive records of its proceedings and decisions, which shall serve as archival and reference material for future policy formulation.

4.The Presiding Officer or the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, in consultation with the Standing Committee, may suspend an ECOSOCC Member or their Designated Representative upon receipt of prima facie evidence of gross misconduct, fraud, embezzlement, inappropriate allocation of ECOSOCC or AU funds, or failure to account for expenditures of ECOSOCC or the AU’s resources. The suspension shall be indefinite, pending a recommendation of the Disciplinary Committee and decision of the Standing Committee, during which period the suspended ECOSOCC Member or Designated Representative shall not be entitled to participate in the meetings or activities of ECOSOCC, nor receive any entitlements or benefits.

Article 34Election and Term of Office of the Disciplinary Committee

1.The General Assembly shall elect Members of the Disciplinary Committee.

2.Nominations for the Disciplinary Committee shall be the outcome of regional consultations conducted within each of the five (5) regions of the AU and the African Diaspora as the sixth region, in accordance with Article 16 of this Statute.

3.The term of office of voting Members of the Disciplinary Committee shall be four (4) years, non-renewable.

4.The Disciplinary Committee shall elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson from among the voting Members for a term of two (2) years, non-renewable, ensuring equitable gender representation and regional rotation.

5.The procedure for the election of Members to the Disciplinary Committee, including the election of its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure.

Article 35Secretariat

1.The Secretariat shall be responsible for coordinating the implementation of decisions of the General Assembly and other ECOSOCC structures, as well as those of the Policy Organs and relevant AU entities, and implementing ECOSOCC’s programmatic activities.

2.The Secretariat shall consist of administrative, professional, technical, and support staff with competence in the various areas of ECOSOCC.

3.The Staff of the Secretariat shall be recruited in conformity with the AU Staff Regulations and Rules and other applicable AU regulations and rules.

4.AU regulations, rules, procedures, and directives shall apply in the administrative and financial functions of the Secretariat.

Article 36Functions of the Secretariat

1.The Secretariat shall perform the following functions:

a)serve as the Secretariat for the General Assembly and all other committees of ECOSOCC;

b)coordinate implementation of activities and ensure effective performance of ECOSOCC in fulfilment of its objectives and functions;

c)ensure effective implementation of the decisions of ECOSOCC structures;

d)coordinate the programmes and work of all technical committees, including the Sectoral Cluster Committees and the Credentials Committee;

e)prepare the strategic plan, work programme, budget, financial statement, and annual report on the activities of ECOSOCC;

f)monitor and prepare an annual report on the status of participation of ECOSOCC Members at various statutory activities of ECOSOCC and the AU; and

g)serve as the exclusive custodian of ECOSOCC's intellectual property in accordance with Article 6 of this Statute.

2.The Secretariat shall convene the meetings of all structures of ECOSOCC in consultation with the respective heads of those structures.

Article 37Sectoral Cluster Coordination Unit

1.A Sectoral Cluster Coordination Unit is hereby established within the Secretariat.

2.The Unit shall consist of specialised staff and a roster of African experts from various sectors relevant to the thematic focus of the Sectoral Cluster Committees.

3.This Unit shall be responsible for researching and generating initial drafts of advisory opinions and reports for subsequent deliberation by the Sectoral Cluster Committees.

4.The Unit's expert roster shall be compiled through an open call for applications and a subsequent recruitment process, taking into account equitable regional, geographical, and gender representation, serving on a pro bono basis.

5.Experts included on the roster shall be invited to assist the Unit when necessary and in the event the Secretariat lacks in-house expertise on a given matter.

Article 38Executive Secretary of ECOSOCC

1.The Secretariat shall be headed by an Executive Secretary who shall serve as the Head and Controlling Officer of the Secretariat and shall be responsible for its day-to-day management.

2.The Executive Secretary shall also serve as the competent authority of ECOSOCC and represent ECOSOCC in all administrative, financial, and programmatic matters, and shall report to the Standing Committee, General Assembly, and the AU, as appropriate.

3.The Executive Secretary shall be accountable to the Accounting Officer of the AU on administrative and financial matters in accordance with the AU Financial Rules, AU Staff Regulations and Rules, and other applicable AU regulations and rules.

4.The Executive Secretary shall be responsible for monitoring staff compliance with the AU Staff Regulations and Rules and AU Code of Ethics and Conduct.

5.The Executive Secretary shall be recruited by the Commission in accordance with AU regulations and rules.

6.The Executive Secretary shall be a person of demonstrated competence, leadership ability and integrity, expertise, and experience in the various areas of ECOSOCC.

7.In the discharge of his or her duties, the Executive Secretary shall not seek or accept instructions from any State, authority, or individual external to the AU.

Article 39National ECOSOCC Chapters

1.National ECOSOCC Chapters shall be established in each Member State, in accordance with the National ECOSOCC Chapter Framework, as an emanation of ECOSOCC, to facilitate the implementation of its mandate and that of the AU at the national level.

2.National ECOSOCC Chapters shall function as networks of CSOs within Member States, in accordance with the provisions of this Statute and the National ECOSOCC Chapter Framework. They shall serve as platforms for civil society engagement, public participation, and the dissemination of information on the activities of the AU, as well as mechanisms for fostering accountability of ECOSOCC Members and contributing to the effective implementation of ECOSOCC programmes and activities at the national level.

3.ECOSOCC shall work with national CSO authorities in Member States to ensure the effective functioning of National ECOSOCC Chapters.

SECTION VIMEETINGS

Article 40Ordinary and Extraordinary Sessions

1.The General Assembly shall meet in Ordinary Session once a year.

2.The General Assembly may also meet in Extraordinary Session, subject to availability of funds at the request of:

a)the General Assembly;

b)the Standing Committee in consultation with the Bureau; or

c)Policy Organs and the Commission.

3.An Extraordinary Session may also be requested by a Member State. In the event of such a request, the Executive Secretary shall promptly transmit the request to the Standing Committee for consideration.

4.Unless otherwise provided by this Statute, the Ordinary Sessions of ECOSOCC shall be convened by the Presiding Officer in consultation with the Bureau and Secretariat.

5.The Secretariat shall circulate the Notice of the opening date and venue of an Ordinary Session at least thirty (30) calendar days before the commencement of the Ordinary Session.

6.The provisional agenda for an Ordinary Session shall be drawn up by the Secretariat in consultation with the Bureau.

7.The provisional agenda for an Extraordinary Session, which shall accompany the Notice convening the Session, shall include only those items proposed for consideration in the request for the Extraordinary Session.

8.Sessions of ECOSOCC shall be held at a venue determined by the Standing Committee, unless a Member State offers to host any such session. In the event that a Member State offers to host any such session and the session is held outside the Headquarters of ECOSOCC, the host Member State shall be responsible for all extra expenses incurred by ECOSOCC.

Article 41Quorum

The quorum for meetings of the General Assembly and meetings of other ECOSOCC structures shall be a simple majority of voting Members.

SECTION VIIDECISION-MAKING PROCEDURES

Article 42Voting Rights and Majority Required

1.Each Member shall have one vote.

2.Decisions shall be by consensus, failing which, by a simple majority of Members present and voting, including decisions of procedure and whether a question is one of procedure.

3.Abstentions by Members shall not prevent the adoption of decisions by consensus.

4.In the event of a tied vote, except in the case of elections which shall be governed under the Rules of Procedure, the proposal voted upon shall be deemed not adopted.

Article 43Methods of voting

Voting may be conducted either physically or virtually by a show of hands, open ballot, or secret ballot.

SECTION VIIIOPERATIONS OF ECOSOCC

Article 44Advisory Opinions and Reports

1.ECOSOCC may issue advisory opinions or reports upon referral from the General Assembly, Commission, the Pan-African Parliament, STCs, Policy Organs or any other authorised entity of the AU. The Standing Committee shall coordinate this function in consultation with the Secretariat.

2.For each matter arising under paragraph 1 of this Article, the Standing Committee, in consultation with the Secretariat, shall designate the relevant Sectoral Cluster Committee to prepare the draft advisory opinion or report, based on the subject matter of the request.

3.The Secretariat shall notify the Chairperson of the designated Committee of the assignment under paragraph 2 of this Article, including any applicable timeframes for its completion, as determined by the Standing Committee.

4.The Sectoral Cluster Committee shall submit draft advisory opinions and reports to the Standing Committee for consideration and final approval, following which they shall be presented to the General Assembly for information.

5.The Secretariat shall develop a model advisory opinion and a model report to guide and standardise the preparation of advisory opinions and reports by the Sectoral Cluster Committees, which shall be referred to the Standing Committee for final approval.

6.Additional procedural details concerning the formulation, meetings, and amendments related to advisory opinions and reports shall be elaborated in the Rules of Procedure.

Article 45Granting of Consultative Status

1.ECOSOCC, through the Secretariat, shall be vested with the authority to grant Consultative Status to CSOs in Africa in accordance with the Harmonised Accreditation Framework.

2.Additional procedures and criteria for the grant of Consultative Status shall be elaborated in the Harmonised Accreditation Framework.

SECTION IXFINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS

Article 46Budget

1.The budget of ECOSOCC shall be within the budget of the AU. The budget calendar of ECOSOCC shall be that of the AU.

2.ECOSOCC may mobilise resources from extra-budgetary sources in accordance with the AU Financial Rules. Other sources of funding may include:

a)Voluntary contributions from Member States;

b)Contributions from development partners of the AU;

c)Contributions from the private sector, financial institutions, and CSOs;

d)Any other source of funding in accordance with the AU Financial Rules.

3.The finances and accounts of ECOSOCC shall be audited in accordance with the AU Financial Rules and other relevant regulations and rules.

4.ECOSOCC shall prepare and submit its budget to the relevant Policy Organ for approval.

SECTION XMISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Article 47Issuance of Disclaimers and Public Notices

1.In the event of infringement of the Intellectual Property Rights of ECOSOCC or the AU as stipulated in Article 6 of this Statute, the Secretariat shall issue official disclaimers and public notices to clarify ECOSOCC's position, safeguard its integrity, and alert the public against any unauthorised or misleading use of ECOSOCC's name or distinctive symbols, without prejudice to the right to initiate disciplinary or other applicable proceedings.

2.Such disclaimers and public notices shall be disseminated through appropriate communication channels, including diplomatic channels, official websites, social media platforms, and press releases.

Article 48Cooperation with Member States, Commission and other AU Organs

1.In fulfilling its mandate, ECOSOCC shall coordinate with the Commission and other AU Organs and Institutions to enhance the effectiveness of its operations.

2.ECOSOCC shall develop working relationships with national CSO authorities in Member States in accordance with Articles 3(1)(c)(iv) and 39.3 of this Statute.

Article 49Relations with international and private entities

1.ECOSOCC shall cooperate and work closely with relevant international and private entities in pursuit of its strategic objectives.

2.Representatives of intergovernmental organisations or civil society organisations, which have been granted ECOSOCC Observer Status, may participate in the open sessions of the General Assembly without the right to vote.

Article 50Privileges and Immunities

The General Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the Organisation of African Unity, and other relevant international legal instruments, shall apply to ECOSOCC, ECOSOCC Members, personnel, premises, properties, communication, and assets.

SECTION XIFINAL PROVISIONS

Article 51Implementation

In the event of any conflict between any provision of this Statute and the Rules of Procedure and any other guideline and supplementary framework of ECOSOCC, this Statute shall prevail.

Article 52Working Languages and Official Documents

1.The working languages of ECOSOCC shall be those of the AU.

2.Official documents shall be made available in the working languages of the AU.

Article 53Entry into Force

This Statute shall enter into force upon its adoption by the Assembly.

Article 54Amendments

1.Proposals for the amendments of this Statute may be made by any Member State or the General Assembly to the Assembly for its consideration.

2.Any amendment to this Statute shall enter into force upon its adoption by the Assembly.

Article 55Authentic Texts

This Statute shall be drawn up in six (6) original texts, in the Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, and Spanish languages, all six (6) texts being equally authentic.