On 18 March 2025 from 15:30 – 16:30 CET, ECDPM will host the event 'Crossed perspectives: Rethinking EU-Africa relations' organised by Ars Geopolitica.

The event will discuss and identify actionable strategies for transforming EU-Africa relations, emphasising the shift from aid dependency to equal partnerships. The focus is on key areas such as skill development, local value addition, and capacity-building as pillars of sustainable development.

Background and context:

The European Union’s relationship with Africa has long been characterised by traditional aid models and infrastructure investments. While these approaches have brought some positive outcomes, they often fail to address the broader, systemic challenges that hinder sustainable development in Africa. This event seeks to challenge and rethink the foundations of EU-Africa relations by moving beyond the donor-recipient paradigm toward a partnership based on mutual respect, shared interests, and sustainable development.

Central to this transformation is the need for a multifaceted approach that not only prioritises infrastructure but also emphasises skill development and local value creation. Without the capacity to manage and leverage infrastructure effectively, its potential impact remains limited. This event aims to explore how the EU can redefine its Africa strategy to foster inclusive growth and build a foundation for long-term cooperation amidst growing geopolitical tensions.

Programme
Welcome and opening remarks
Panel discussion: Crossed perspectives on EU-Africa relations
H.E. Bitange Ndemo – PhD, FKIM, CBS – Kenyan Ambassador
Alfonso Medinilla – Head of climate action and green transition, ECDPM
Jérémy Labarre – Africa Advisor to the French Permanent Representation to the EU
Mouctar Bah – Executive Chairman at Brussels-Africa Hub.
Q&A session
Closing remarks

For registration here