Regionalism in Africa and External Partners: Uneven Relationships and (Un)Intended Effects

This volume explores the role and impact of external partners on regionalism in Africa, acknowledging the multilevel and multidimensional nature of regionalism and its uneven relationships with external actors. It provides comprehensive mapping studies and case studies to examine patterns of asymmetric inter-dependence and the influence of external partners on integration processes and projects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 245 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate realm of regionalism in Africa, undertaking a systematic exploration of its role and impact in the context of external partners. Recognizing the multifaceted and multidimensional nature of regionalism, the book acknowledges the diverse range of cooperative institutions and policy areas that characterize it, while also taking into account the uneven relationships between African regional organizations and external actors. Through two comprehensive mapping studies, the book examines patterns of asymmetric interdependence between regionalism in Africa and external partners in Europe, particularly focusing on trade and donor funding. These studies shed light on structural imbalances and unintended consequences, highlighting the complex dynamics at play. In addition, five in-depth case studies provide valuable insights into various African regional organizations, with a particular emphasis on security regionalism. These case studies delve into how external partners influence and shape integration processes and projects, offering a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives. While regionalism in Africa has undoubtedly benefited from external relations and partnerships with Europe, this volume challenges the notion of a purely positive impression. It identifies and examines some of the major undermining factors and actors that contribute to the complexities and challenges of regional integration in Africa. By undertaking a comprehensive analysis of regionalism in Africa, this volume provides valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners alike, contributing to our understanding of the complex dynamics and complexities of regional cooperation and integration in the continent.

Introduction:
Regionalism in Africa has gained significant attention in recent years, as the continent seeks to foster economic cooperation, security, and political stability. The involvement of external partners, particularly Europe, has played a pivotal role in shaping the dynamics, institutional design, and performance of regional integration projects. This volume aims to provide a comprehensive examination of regionalism in Africa, exploring the role and impact of external partners on the region's development.
The Multilevel and Multidimensional Nature of Regionalism:
Regionalism in Africa is characterized by its multilevel and multidimensional nature. It encompasses a wide range of cooperative institutions and policy areas, including economic integration, security, trade, and development. The variety of actors involved, including governments, regional organizations, private sector entities, and civil society organizations, further adds to the complexity of regionalism in Africa.
Uneven Relationships with External Actors:
One of the key challenges facing regionalism in Africa is the uneven relationship between African regional organizations and external partners. While external partners have provided financial and technical support for regional integration projects, they have also exerted influence over the decision-making processes and policies of these organizations. This has led to concerns about the autonomy and sovereignty of African states and the ability of regional organizations to pursue their own development agendas.
Comprehensive Mapping Studies:
To address these challenges, the book includes two comprehensive mapping studies that examine patterns of asymmetric interdependence between regionalism in Africa and external partners in Europe. These studies focus on trade and donor funding, two critical areas of cooperation between regionalism in Africa and external partners. The studies provide valuable insights into the structural imbalances and unintended consequences of these partnerships, highlighting the need for a more equitable and sustainable approach to external engagement.
Additional Case Studies:
In addition to the mapping studies, the book includes five in-depth case studies that provide a deeper analysis of specific African regional organizations. These case studies focus on security regionalism, a growing area of cooperation in Africa that aims to address the challenges of terrorism, piracy, and organized crime. The studies explore how external partners influence and affect integration processes and projects within these regional organizations, highlighting the complexities and challenges of regional security cooperation.
Conclusion:
Regionalism in Africa is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is shaped by a range of internal and external factors. While external partnerships have played a significant role in promoting regional integration, they have also contributed to structural imbalances and unintended consequences. This volume provides valuable insights into the role and impact of external partners on regionalism in Africa, highlighting the need for a more equitable and sustainable approach to external engagement. By examining the multilevel and multidimensional nature of regionalism, the book contributes to our understanding of the complex dynamics and complexities of regional cooperation and integration in the continent.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031107016
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022