The geopolitical landscape is changing dramatically. While the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has shaken European security, China is pursuing its own version of a world order. Climate change is confronting us all with consequences for living conditions and management of resources. Amidst of all this, the African continent is attracting increasing attention from foreign political actors. The European Union also has a vested interest in strong bilateral relations in the region, however it lacks a coherent approach and strategic alliances. To highlight the importance of recent developments in West-Africa in particular, Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom together with the 1 German- Netherlands Corps, the German Africa Foundation and Project Lighthouse Africa, all under the umbrella of the Common Effort community, is hosting an international conference in Berlin on 13 June 2023. Discussions will focus on the role of foreign actors, the comprehensive approach to security and development, conflict resolution and the role of the EU in the region. Special emphasis will be put on the role of communication, narratives, and perspectives in the current discussion.

Programme
Monday, 12th June 2023

19:00 – 21:30

Tuesday, 13th June 2023

08:30 – 09:30hrs
Networking Breakfast

09:30 – 09:45hrs
Words of Welcome

09:45 – 10:00hrs
Opening Remarks: Brigadier Jürgen Schrödl, Federal Ministry of Defence

10:00 – 11:15hrs
Panel 1: „Politics and propaganda – Making new allies“

11:45 – 12:15hrs
Keynote Speech: Vice Admiral Omar Wade, Chief of Staff to the President of the Republic of Senegal

12:15 – 13:30hrs
Panel 2: „A comprehensive approach to development and security in West Africa“

14:30 – 15:45hrs
Panel 3: „ Foreign interventions in regional conflicts: the narrative management for peace through dialogue approach (NAMA4PD) for a sustainable conflict resolution “

16:15 – 17:30hrs
Panel 4: „ Africa – Europe’s new strategic focus in a multipolar world?”

17:30 – 18.00hrs
Closing Words