The Arab Uprising : Implications for Self-Determination and Good Governance in the African Union

The right to self determination is a fundamental principle of international law, which aided many African countries to secure independence. Its post-colonial history, however, dwelt on secessionist bids, not good governance. This history changed in November 2010 when mass uprisings erupted in Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. These uprisings pose serious challenges for the African Union regarding its non-interventionist policy in the domestic affairs of states. This paper examines the implications of the Arab uprisings on governance-based struggles for self determination in Africa. By positing that human rights are the flipside of legitimate resistance, it justifies the uprisings on an emerging struggle approach to good governance and attempts to identify the elements required to legitimize future struggles. It suggests that the AU's relevance will be undermined by its non-interventionist approach unless its peace and security system is structured to accommodate future uprisings