As the post-1945 multilateral system and the Pax Americana that underpinned it is in the throes of tremendous change, African countries need to take every opportunity to redefine their role in the emerging new world order, says a recent commentary published by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR). But while African countries are increasingly looking east to China, India, Russia, Turkey, and other (re-)emerging powers, for partnerships, they also need to ensure they do not move from one unhappy partnership (most notably with some Western powers) to another. By diversifying the cooperation with China, India and other countries, African policymakers hope to reduce the vulnerabilities that are associated with a one-sided dependence on the West. While multi-polarity offers African countries the ability to maneuver within the international system and thus determine their own affairs, Olukoshi warns African leaders not assume that any of the new or re-emerging powers are driven by altruism in their external relations. Overall, he says, it is time for the continent to stand up for itself.

Source: The North Africa Journal June 15, 2023 11:27 UTC