Connecting Africa and Asia: Afrasia as a Benign Community

The book "The Age of Afrasia: A New Cognitive Map of the World" explores the future of Afrasia, a macro-region that will house over 80% of the world's population by 2100. It draws lessons from history, provides a new cognitive map of the world, and discusses the challenges global citizens will face in this age. The author argues that a state of equilibrium between Africa and Asia is achievable, but requires simultaneous addressing of gender, employment, agriculture, human-nature relationships, and multicultural coexistence. The book will interest professional researchers and graduate students in IR and Afro-Asian relations, as well as Asian and African area studies, demographics, geography, history, development economics, anthropology, language education, and religious studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The world is undergoing a significant shift in its demographic landscape, with a projected majority of the global population residing in the Afrasia region by the year 2050. This transformative shift is driven by a combination of factors, including rapid population growth, urbanization, and economic development in Africa and Asia. In this book, we seek to draw lessons from history, provide a fresh cognitive map of the world, and explore the diverse challenges that global citizens will face in the age of Afrasia, a rapidly emerging macro-region.

The center of gravity of the world is shifting towards Africa and Asia, a region that encompasses a vast and diverse array of countries and cultures. This shift has significant implications for the future of our planet, as the decisions and actions taken by people in this region will have a profound impact on the global economy, environment, and social dynamics.

One of the key challenges that global citizens will face in the age of Afrasia is the need to manage the rapid population growth that is projected to occur in this region. With millions of people joining the global workforce every year, there is a growing demand for resources, infrastructure, and social services. However, this growth also presents significant challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation.

Another challenge that global citizens will face in the age of Afrasia is the need to address gender inequality and promote gender equality. Despite significant progress in recent years, women continue to face barriers to economic empowerment, education, and political participation in many parts of Africa and Asia. This inequality not only hinders the development of individual women but also has broader societal implications, such as reduced productivity and increased social unrest.

Employment is another critical issue that global citizens will face in the age of Afrasia. With the rapid growth of industries such as technology, healthcare, and tourism, there is a growing demand for skilled workers. However, this demand is often outstripped by the supply of available workers, particularly in developing countries. This has led to increased unemployment and underemployment, particularly among young people.

Agriculture is another key sector that global citizens will need to focus on in the age of Afrasia. With the majority of the world's population projected to reside in urban areas by 2050, there is a growing demand for food and other agricultural products. However, agriculture in many parts of Africa and Asia is facing significant challenges, such as soil degradation, climate change, and pests and diseases. This has led to reduced crop yields, food insecurity, and increased poverty.

Human-nature relationships are another critical issue that global citizens will need to address in the age of Afrasia. With the rapid development of infrastructure and industries, there is a growing disconnect between humans and the natural environment. This disconnect has led to environmental degradation, climate change, and the loss of biodiversity. Global citizens will need to work together to find sustainable solutions to these challenges, such as promoting renewable energy, reducing waste, and protecting natural habitats.

Multicultural coexistence is another challenge that global citizens will face in the age of Afrasia. With a growing number of people from different cultures and backgrounds living in close proximity, there is a need to promote understanding, tolerance, and respect for diversity. This challenge is particularly important in countries that have experienced conflict or political instability, as it can help to build social cohesion and promote peace.

In conclusion, the age of Afrasia presents global citizens with a unique set of challenges and opportunities. By drawing lessons from history, providing a fresh cognitive map of the world, and exploring the diverse challenges that global citizens will face in this region, we can work together to build a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Whether the world can manage a soft landing into sustainable equilibrium depends on the nature of the dialogue people in Africa and Asia will organize. By working together, we can create a future that is prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive for all.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032134567