OCAF 2200 - African Security and the International System

Today, Africa lies at the center of new international security interventions, involving a wild range of bilateral, multilateral and non-state actors whose practices, norms, values and interests are shaping African security governance. Yet, those relations are far from unidirectional, local/vernacular dynamics are the key-drivers of (in)security on the continent and African stakeholders are growingly imposing their own perceptions and agendas to external partners.
This course will therefore analyze the positioning of Africa within the contemporary international system, questioning the diversification of security partnerships promoted by African state and non-state actors, as well as the security policies of external powers and multilateral organizations on the continent.

Learning Outcomes
1. Identifying the main international great powers active in the realm of African security
2. Understanding the challenges faced by multilateralism to deal with African conflict
3. Analyzing international interventionism in African multi-dimensional crises
4. Capturing African agency

Professional Skills
1. Research and analysis
2. Critical thinking
3. Oral and written communication

Niagalé BAGAYOKO

Séminaire

English

- In Class Presence: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
- Reading and Preparation for Class: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
- Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 3 hours a week / 36 hours a semester

Autumn 2025-2026

The evaluation will be based on a paper and oral presentation on the same topic (60%), a cartographical test (30%) and participation (10%):
- An oral presentation (duration: max. 10 min) with a complete Powerpoint presentation (including maps, charts, diagrams, pictures, videos, etc.) will be made before the class. (30%)
- The paper (3 to 4 pages - plus additional annexes and bibliography - structured into a clear and detailed outline) is to be handed in and to be shared with the class two weeks after the relevant session, taking into account the comments made by the teacher after the oral presentation (30%).
- At the end of session 9 or 12, a cartographical test will be organized. To prepare it, students are required to include at least a map in their oral presentation and to briefly comment on it. (30%)
- Participation in class (10%) : each session will need to be prepared through a series of readings and a follow-up of weekly security news in Africa which will be discussed for 20 minutes at the beginning of the class. Questions formulated after each presentation (from the teacher or other students) will also be taken into account.

There will be no Power Point presentation in class by the teacher. AFTER each course, a summary of the lesson will be sent via e-mail.
Students may submit an outline or a research question for comment prior to final submission of their written or oral work
Oral presentation: Students have the choice of receiving feedback directly in class after their presentation or in writing within a week.
Writings: Feedback will be given in the final evaluation when grades are delivered at the end of the semester.