Africa Seminar

Program Description

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Africa is undergoing major transformations. Endowed with large natural wealth and possessing a young and still growing population, the continent continues to be torn between the weight of corruption and mismanagement and the needs and energies of the youngest populations in the world.

Inflationary pressures, food insecurity, weak health systems and only modest welfare cushions have strained most African states. Add to these woes are a surging jihadist movement in both East and West Africa, regional conflicts, and growing tensions over water security and resource scarcity. Even amid these challenges, there are rays of hope, including a burgeoning tech scene in several key capitals, and better macro management of finance in several key countries.

Given Africa’s growing geopolitical and geo-economic role, key global powers, including the United States, China, the European Union, India, and Russia, may play an increasing role in shaping the destiny of the continent. We can expect more—not less—great power competition across the African continent over the next decade. At the same time, French and American influence is being challenged by local rulers.

Drawing upon the knowledge and experience of a diverse group of prominent experts, this workshop will explore the social, political, and economic developments on the African continent. Topics listed below will give the participants an insight into the important issues that will be discussed in the program.

Suggested Seminar Topics

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• Africa: Its Legacy and Its Aspirations
• The Great Power Competition for Influence in Africa
• Where Does Africa Fit in the Global Climate Policy Agenda?
• Political Crisis and Economic Prospects in the Horn of Africa
• The Nexus of Terrorism and Transnational Crime in Africa
• Nigeria, Ethiopia, Egypt and South Africa: Four Pivots of Strategic Change
• The Underestimated Importance of Africa in U.S. Foreign Policy
• Why Infrastructure Matters More Than Ever for Africa
• Nigeria: Africa’s Most Populous (and Pivotal) State
• Strategic Fragmentation and the Africa Continent
• South Africa: The Rainbow Nation or a Failed State?
• The Sudan Crisis: Origins, Triggers, and Regional and Global Consequences
• North Africa’s Fault Lines and Frontlines
• Why the African Union Should be Reformed?
• Africa at the Crossroads: Political Choice and Economic Growth
• Non-State Actors and the Rule of Law in Africa

The above topics may change to address current events and interests of the participants at the time of the seminar.
 

Moderator

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The Program Moderator will have extensive experience conducting senior-level foreign policy seminars for the Intel Community. The Moderator will have first-hand knowledge and a detailed, up-to-date understanding of the region being studied in each seminar. In addition to the daily morning introduction and afternoon wrap-up, the Moderator will generally make a separate presentation and be available to provide additional presentations as needed. The Moderator will facilitate, when necessary, dialogue between the speakers and participants as well as lead the group discussions and Q&A sessions.

 

Fee

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The fee for each three-day Foreign Policy Seminar is $2,475 per person. The program will feature approximately 12-15 separate presentations. Also included are daily continental breakfasts and working luncheons. The seminar will be held in a private meeting room. An on-site staff person will assist participants as needed and coordinate daily activities.

 

Registration

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The target audience for these seminars are civilians (GS-15 and above) and military (O-6 and above). Others who have a special interest in the subject, need-to-know, or are in key positions may apply. Seminar space is limited to assure participants have ample time for open discussion with presenters. Upon registration, attendees will receive confirmation via email within five days. Cancellations will be accepted in writing up to two weeks prior to each program. After that time, substitutions will be accepted. The Agency will be billed if registration is cancelled after the deadline.

If you have any questions or need further information, please call the office at 703-684-8807.

 

Additional Information

Reporting information will be sent to all participants approximately two weeks prior to the start of the program.

These programs are informal and strictly “off-the-record.” No video, PowerPoint or audio-visual aids are utilized in the presentations.