Since is establishments, the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) has made significant progress. However, until now, a reference document for those who want a better understanding of the security architecture had been missing. Therefore, this handbook provides information and analysis about the APSA for policy makers and the larger public. It includes chapters on the relevant institutions on continental and regional levels, including the Peace and Security Council and the African Standby Force, and also covers the relationship between the AU and the RECS as well as other key partners.