Megatrends: Structural Transformations in Africa

African countries and societies are currently undergoing profound transformations that are being driven or shaped by global megatrends which have far-reaching impacts on social, economic and political systems. This applies, for example, to climate change, urbanisation, digitalisation, demographic change and shifts in the global balance of power.

The “Megatrends Afrika” project

Especially in today’s era of disruption – against the backdrop of a changing world order, the return of war to Europe and the fragmentation of the West as a community of values – Germany and Europe face major challenges. In this context, African countries are steadily gaining importance as partners for Germany and Europe, whether in reforming the multilateral order, reducing economic dependencies or attracting skilled workers. These dynamics create new challenges for German and European decision-makers and increase the need for scientifically grounded policy advice.

In the project “Megatrends Afrika: Cooperation with Africa in Times of Global Disruption”, we develop ideas for German and European cooperation with African partners to help shape ongoing transformation processes in a sustainable and fair manner. We examine what the new world order and key megatrends mean for politics, economies and peace in Africa; how African societies are shaping their policies in an increasingly fragmented international system; and in which areas Germany and Europe can further develop their cooperation with African partners in the pursuit of shared interests.

We focus on four research areas:

• Peace and Security
• The Future of Democracy
• Economic Prospects
• Africa's Role in the New World Order

Megatrends Afrika is a joint project of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (Kiel Institute).

The project’s researchers adhere to the generally recognised principles for ensuring good scientific practice. Policy Briefs and Working Papers that are produced are subject to an internal peer review process. Furthermore, Policy Briefs undergo fact-checking. The publications reflect the views of the respective authors.

 

Informing the debate on Africa policy

We produce policy-relevant research on major political, social and economic trends in Africa. The project brings together scholars from both continents and different disciplines. Our goal is to engage in exchange, adopt different perspectives and subject them to critical reflection and discussion. We conduct these debates at workshops with representatives from academia, politics and civil society, through our publications and via the blog series of on website (Spotlight). In doing so, we seek to contribute to a more nuanced public debate on Africa.