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Africa

As a consequence of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we are seeing a renewed Global Powers competition and an increasingly acute energy crisis. These developments have put the African continent centre stage again in international relations. Understanding how political and security developments within Africa shape the continent, as well as its position on the international scene, is a core objective of the Africa Programme.

In line with this aim, we contribute to increased knowledge and shape policy debates on, and in, Africa by organising expert seminars and providing in-depth research on: military interventions and security collaborations; the politics of elections; peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts; the political economy of mining, and the development of women, peace and the security agenda, with a particular focus on the Great Lakes and the Sahel region.

Drawing on our own expertise, as well as a wide network of national and international research institutes, public authorities, and NGOs, makes the Africa Programme a central authority on matters related to Africa on a national, regional and global level.

Publications

Events

Islamic militancy and political stability in Nigeria

On invitation only

Nigeria, Africa’s biggest economy and most populous state, faces an unprecedented security crisis since the Boko Haram insurgency began in 2009. The Islamist militant threat has been interpreted in the […]

Responsible sourcing of minerals

On invitation only

This expert-practitioner seminar brought together academics and policymakers to discuss the EU’s proposed framework on the ‘Responsible sourcing of minerals originating in conflict-affected and high-risk areas’. The meeting discussed challenges […]

The current state of African affairs

On invitation only

The purpose of this meeting was an informal exchange of views on the current state of African affairs under Chatham House Rule among experts. (Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons)