Foreign Relations and Africa’s Agency in the International System

Research and networks of governmental and non-governmental actors help to support a deeper understanding of the changing dynamics of African political economies and international relations.

Image — Broadcast technicians work in a control room during the official launch of the Digital Terrestrial Television (TNT) in February 2019 near Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP via Getty Images.

As African states pursue their foreign policy goals in an increasingly multipolar world, the Africa Programme examines the policy implications of these evolving international partnerships and the role of African multilateral leadership.

Through our research, events and commentary, the Africa Programme explores Africa’s relations with China, the European Union (EU), Russia and the US, as well as the milestone addition of the African Union (AU) to the G20 and what this means for Africa’s economic and geopolitical influence on the global stage. A series of research papers and events have also covered the foreign policy priorities and global aspirations of Tanzania, South Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria and Rwanda.

Despite being underrepresented in global governance structures, African states are increasingly advocating for fairer representation in global fora and multilateral institutions. The Africa Programme closely monitors their engagements in key bodies such as the UN, the AU and the Commonwealth, and how African perspectives on global challenges – including climate change – are evolving. We have collaborated with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia and the European Commission on convenings around Africa’s energy transition, and the critical interplay between the green transition, development, peace and security.

Supported by Open Society Foundations, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Africa Programme has hosted visiting fellows to contribute research to inform and guide Mozambique and Sierra Leone during their terms as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.

Project work

Carlos Lopes reflects on what lies ahead for the African Union, the tests facing its leadership, and how Africa can navigate through changes in the global order.

In this episode, Professor Carlos Lopes discusses what the African Union’s G20 membership means for Africa’s economic and geopolitical influence on the global stage.

Tanzania’s rising economic influence and its ambitions for major cross-border infrastructure projects demand a more proactive approach to foreign policy. The policy review currently under way is a chance for the country to reach its potential as a regional leader and reliable global partner.

The UK needs to get the tone right as South African president Cyril Ramaphosa is welcomed by King Charles III for the first state visit of his reign.

Increasing maritime awareness has already delivered impact, but consistency and continental leadership are needed to realize the sector’s full potential.

Change is necessary not only in global economic structures and attitudes – but in African governance too.

Discussion of ‘African agency’ must distinguish between the continent and specific groups of Africans, and can manifest as resistance to totalitarian power.

This paper finds that the transition perspectives of Central and Eastern European member states can help shape the EU’s evolving partnership with Africa.

African governments need to coordinate and leverage the power of their collective voice to garner sustained support and influence global governance systems.

Genuine partnership between international industry and African governments can unlock mining’s potential and give it greater influence in the global economy.

To mark the centenary of Chatham House, the Africa programme curated an exhibition of archive material which charts how the institute has been both a major forum for discussion on Africa, and an important platform for African leaders to engage in international affairs.

Structures to support more in-depth investigative journalism are vital in Africa because that seems to be the only thing those in power still truly fear.

Delegates arrive at the closing ceremony of the African Union summit in Niger in July. Photo: Getty Images.

The agreement, which entered into force in May, could be a major step for Africa’s role in international trade, if the continent can overcome barriers to implementation.

Familiar promises of equal partnership must be backed by bolder action, including an expanded budget, internal reform and a rethink of its approach to trade negotiations.

More and more, African countries are able to act in concert to stand up for the interests of the continent.

Trade between Central and Eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa has increased significantly in the last decade and a half. There is a strong case to be made for greater economic re-engagement, especially in terms of investment, that has the potential to support inclusive growth in both regions.

How African leaders respond to this renewed attention will determine whether there is further continental political fragmentation or whether Africa develops its international voice.

With proper government commitment, the UK could see substantial economic, security and diplomatic benefits from deepening relationships with African partners.

A trip to Beijing by Zimbabwe’s military chief was a ‘normal military exchange’, China’s foreign ministry said after the army seized power in Harare. Alex Vines examines the extent of China’s influence in Zimbabwe.

Despite cost concerns, Kenya’s deal shows that infrastructure agreements with China can be made fairer for citizens of partner countries. Its neighbours should take note.

Castro supported many independence leaders in Africa, but Cuba’s solidarity and sacrifice was greatest in Angola.

Past events

Rt Hon Raila Odinga EGH, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya and candidate for African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson, discusses the AU and his vision for the organization’s future.

The DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs discusses the country’s approach to regional stability and the role of international partnerships in securing economic prosperity.

Experts assess the status of ties between Africa and Europe in a rapidly changing world, launching a new book that explores how misconceptions in the relationship can harm Africa’s economic agenda.