Russia’s long shadow in the Sahel
The EU’s values-led foreign policy and its stabilisation objectives in the Sahel are in tension with each other. Russia is now waiting to exploit that tension.
Africa
Partnership through crisis: The real meaning of Scholz’s Africa trip
Stronger relationships with African states can help Europe address the immediate energy and food crises – and help counter Russian efforts to destabilise both continents
Bloc chains: Europe’s partnerships on the food crisis in Africa
Russia will politicise its food aid to Africa as it did covid-19 vaccines. Europe needs to learn from this experience of being outmanoeuvred as it responds to the global food crisis.
Why UN votes shouldn’t define Europe-Africa relations
Many Europeans were disappointed with how African countries voted on UN resolutions to condemn Russia’s war on Ukraine. But they should remember that African states still need to diversify their partnerships.
Putin’s war on Ukraine: Aftershocks in the Europe-Africa partnership
The war looks set to create daunting challenges for African countries in areas such as food and energy security. Now more than ever, it is vital for Europe to show solidarity with them.
Competitive values: Russia’s conflict with Europe in Africa
Russia’s role in Africa takes on a new meaning in light of its all-out war on Ukraine. The Kremlin may not have previously seen its ambitions in Africa in terms of conflict with Europe, but this is now the reality.
Promises, promises: The future of the Europe-Africa partnership
The recent summit between the European Union and the African Union raised hopes of genuine cooperation between the sides. A key test of the partnership will be in whether the EU lives up to its promises.
Law and global order: EU legislation on human rights due diligence
Legislation on human rights due diligence is coming. For it to succeed, the EU will need to coordinate key institutions and raise awareness of its benefits for Europe’s partners and companies.
Beyond sanctions: How west Africa can recommit to democracy
The Economic Community of West African States should ensure that its sanctions on Mali do not harm ordinary citizens – and that it lifts them if the country’s military junta supports a democratic transition
Sudan after Hamdouk: Three steps Europeans should now take
Following the prime minister’s resignation, Europeans should now attempt to avert the military from further repression, engage the broader civilian constituency, and seek a new form of mediation