African Union summit opens as youth anger grows over a 'bloc of old leaders'

The African Union is holding its annual summit in Ethiopia as the organization faces widespread discontent. Leaders are meeting in Addis Ababa for the annual African Union summit over the weekend, as many African youth say the AU feels like ‘a bloc of old leaders’. Analysts say youth feel shut out while long-serving leaders dominate the bloc. Many point to rising poverty, coups, and protests tied to economic pain and aid cuts. Critics also say the AU often backs incumbents after disputed elections. The summit also covers water, sanitation, climate, and aid cuts.