The Palgrave Handbook of Africa and the Changing Global Order

This handbook highlights Africa's crucial role in the global order by connecting the past, present, and future, presenting an image of an active global agent that projects soft power. It offers an eclectic mix of historical, contemporary, and interdisciplinary approaches to understand Africa's relations with the world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1129 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive handbook fills a significant void in our understanding of Africa's pivotal role in the evolving global landscape. By seamlessly bridging the past, present, and future, it sheds light on the paradoxical existence of over one billion people, highlighting the continent's paramount significance in global knowledge production, the global economy, global security, and global creativity. Through the inclusion of perspectives from esteemed African scholars, the book actively debunks misconceptions about Africa as merely a passive recipient of external influences, instead portraying it as an astute global agent that skillfully wields soft power. Unlike previous handbooks, this one presents an eclectic blend of historical, contemporary, and interdisciplinary approaches, providing a holistic perspective on Africa's complex relations with the world.

The historical context provided in the handbook is crucial in unraveling the intricate tapestry of Africa's interactions with the rest of the world. It explores the legacies of colonialism, slavery, and the subsequent struggles for independence and development, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the African people. The book also acknowledges the contributions of African leaders and intellectuals to global discourse, emphasizing their role in shaping international policies and promoting social justice.

In the contemporary era, Africa continues to play a vital role in global affairs. The continent is home to a rapidly growing population, abundant natural resources, and a wealth of cultural diversity. It is also a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, with many African countries experiencing rapid economic growth and technological advancements. The handbook explores the various facets of Africa's engagement with the world, including trade, investment, aid, and cultural exchange. It examines the challenges and opportunities that Africa faces in the global marketplace, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, and highlights the efforts of African governments and organizations to address these issues.

The interdisciplinary approach adopted in the handbook is particularly noteworthy. It brings together experts from various fields, including history, politics, economics, sociology, and anthropology, to provide a multi-dimensional understanding of Africa's relations with the world. This approach allows for a more comprehensive analysis of the complex issues that affect the continent, enabling scholars to draw on a wealth of knowledge and perspectives.

One of the key themes that emerges from the handbook is the importance of promoting sustainable development in Africa. The continent faces numerous environmental and social challenges, including deforestation, poverty, and disease. However, there are also opportunities for Africa to leverage its natural resources and cultural heritage to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity. The handbook highlights the role of international cooperation, investment, and technology in supporting Africa's development efforts, and emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that addresses both economic and social dimensions.

Another important theme is the role of Africa in global security. The continent is home to many conflict-ridden regions, including the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and the Great Lakes region. However, it is also a source of stability and peace, with many African countries contributing to international peacekeeping missions and promoting regional cooperation. The handbook explores the challenges and opportunities that Africa faces in promoting global security, including the role of regional organizations such as the African Union and the United Nations, as well as the efforts of African governments to address the root the root causes of conflict and promote peacebuilding.

In conclusion, this comprehensive handbook fills a significant gap in our understanding of Africa's pivotal role in the evolving global order. By connecting the past, present, and future in a continuum that shows the paradox of existence for over one billion people, the book underscores the centrality of the African continent to global knowledge production, the global economy, global security, and global creativity. Through the inclusion of perspectives from esteemed African scholars, the book actively debunks misconceptions about Africa as merely a passive recipient of external influences, instead portraying it as an astute global agent that skillfully wields soft power. The interdisciplinary approach adopted in the handbook is particularly noteworthy, bringing together experts from various fields to provide a multi-dimensional understanding of Africa's relations with the world. The book highlights the importance of promoting sustainable development, promoting global security, and leveraging Africa's natural resources and cultural heritage to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity. By doing so, this handbook contributes to a more informed and nuanced understanding of Africa's role in the global landscape and provides valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and individuals interested in Africa's development and future.

Weight: 2084g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030774806
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022