Council on Foreign Relations | africa.com

Africa.com features research and commentary from this leading think tank to connect our global readership with authoritative perspectives on Africa's place in international affairs and global diplomacy.

Council on Foreign Relations and African Governance

Research published through this partnership examines democratic governance, electoral integrity, constitutional reform, and institutional accountability across African nations. This research looks at how governance structures affect economic development, foreign investment, and regional stability across key markets including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Egypt. Policymakers and investors rely on this analysis for reliable assessments of political risk and opportunity across the continent. Understanding governance trends helps businesses and governments make informed decisions about engagement with African markets at every stage of development. The research covers transitions of power, constitutional amendments, judicial independence, anti-corruption efforts, and the role of civil society in holding governments accountable across the continent.

Council on Foreign Relations African Economic Research

Economic development across Africa is examined in depth through this research collaboration. Analysts cover trade policy frameworks, debt sustainability challenges, infrastructure investment priorities, regional economic integration, and the impact of global commodity price movements on African economies. The research tracks how international financial institutions, bilateral donors, and private sector investors are collectively shaping development outcomes across the continent. This analysis is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand Africa's long-term economic growth trajectory, investment climate, and position in the global economy. Coverage extends to the African Continental Free Trade Area, fintech and digital financial services, agricultural productivity, energy transition, and the growing role of African capital markets in financing development across the continent.

Council on Foreign Relations Climate and Security Analysis

The intersection of climate change and security in Africa receives significant research attention through this partnership. Analysis covers how resource scarcity, prolonged drought, seasonal flooding, and population displacement are contributing to conflict and instability across the Sahel, Horn of Africa, and Great Lakes regions. This research examines the policy responses being developed by African governments, regional bodies such as the African Union, and international organisations to address these interconnected challenges. Understanding climate and security dynamics is increasingly essential for governments, development organisations, humanitarian agencies, and businesses with operations across the African continent. The research provides practical frameworks for understanding how environmental stress translates into political instability and what interventions have proved most effective in building resilience.

Council on Foreign Relations US-Africa Diplomatic Relations

The evolving diplomatic and strategic relationship between the United States and Africa is a core focus of this research. Coverage includes analysis of US foreign assistance programmes, trade and investment initiatives such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act, security cooperation agreements, and the broader geopolitical competition between major powers for influence across the continent. The research examines how shifts in US foreign policy affect African governments, economies, and development prospects, and what African leaders and institutions are doing to navigate a rapidly changing global order while advancing their own national and continental interests. Analysis also covers the role of the African diaspora in shaping US-Africa policy and the growing influence of African voices in multilateral institutions.

Council on Foreign Relations Africa Publications and Resources

A wide range of publications cover Africa including reports, policy briefs, expert roundtables, and multimedia content. These publications draw on the expertise of leading Africa specialists, former diplomats, security analysts, and economic researchers who have direct experience working across the continent. These Africa publications are widely read by government officials, corporate executives, development professionals, academics, and journalists seeking reliable and independent analysis of African affairs. Africa.com curates and features this expert content to ensure our readers have access to the highest quality foreign policy analysis available. The publications address both immediate policy challenges and longer-term structural questions about Africa's development, security, and global integration that will shape the continent's future over the coming decades.