32: Africa and the Economic Struggle of Great Power Politics
Jun 19, 2024
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Guest Jake Barnett, Hudson Institute Non-resident Fellow, discusses Africa's economic and political landscape with a focus on foreign investments from France, US, Russia, China, and Saudi Arabia. He examines the impact of Chinese and Russian initiatives on the continent and the perception of the West in the region.
Different global powers are heavily invested in Africa for economic, military, and humanitarian purposes.
The rising jihadist threats in West Africa are a major concern for regional stability and global counterterrorism efforts.
Deep dives
The Impact of Economic Influence on Africa's Development
The discussion delves into the significant role of economic influences in shaping Africa's future. Various foreign direct investments (FDI) from countries like China, the Gulf states, and the US are examined. The disparities in economic systems and approaches highlight the challenges faced in leveraging investments for Africa's development and infrastructure projects. The conversation underscores the complexities of economic engagement in Africa amidst varying strategies and influences from global powers.
Great Power Competition and Counterterrorism in West Africa
The podcast explores the dynamics of great power competition and counterterrorism in West Africa. It highlights the impacts of major powers like China, Russia, and the US in the region. The discussion emphasizes the growth of jihadist groups and increased territorial threats in West Africa, leading to concerns about regional stability and security measures. Efforts such as the Global Fragility Act aim to address the spread of terrorism through a mix of developmental and security interventions.
The Extent of Terrorism Threat and Security Challenges
The episode sheds light on the rising terrorist threats and security challenges in West Africa. The expansion of jihadist groups from the Sahelian states towards coastal regions poses significant risks to the stability and peace of the affected countries. Initiatives like the Global Fragility Act focus on enhancing resilience against violent extremism through a multifaceted approach. The conversation reflects on the potential impacts of uncontrolled jihadist violence on regional security, migration patterns, and global counterterrorism efforts.
Hudson Institute Non-resident Fellow, Jake Barnett, joins the show from Nigeria to paint the picture of Africa's current economic and political landscape. France, the US, Russia, China and Saudi Arabia are all planted on the continent by way of direct foreign direct investment, humanitarian aid, or military support and peacekeeping. Barnett gives his outlook as to how the West is perceived regionally, and whether Chinese and Russian initiatives on the continent will have long-lasting impact or not.
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