Africa's International Relations Balancing Domestic and Global Interests

Comprehensive and engaging, this timely introduction to Africa’s international relations explores how power, interests, and ideas influence interactions both among the continent’s states and between African states and other actors in the global arena. How has history shaped the international relations of African states and peoples? What role does identity play? How are foreign policies linked to domestic political dynamics, and especially to the pursuit of regime security? How are states grappling with the tensions between sovereignty and external pressures? These are among the questions answered as the authors address a wide range of ongoing and emerging challenges, all in historical and theoretical context. In addition, a case study at the end of each chapter illustrates key concepts and reflects an ongoing debate. The result is an ideal text for students, as well as an invaluable resource for researchers and policymakers.

1. Understanding Africa's International Relations Part 1: Historical Context 2. From Kingdoms to States 3. Africa During the Cold War Part 2: The Pursuit of Freedom and Development 4. Foreign Aid and Economic Conditionality 5. External Pressures for Political Reform and Human Rights 6. The Elusive Goal of African Unity Part 3: The Challenges of Security 7. The Regionalization of Conflict 8. Humanitarian Assistance and Peace Operations 9. The Politics of Migration Part 4: Engaging with External Actors 10. Africa and the United States 11. Africa and Europe 12. Africa and the Emerging Powers Part 5: Conclusion 13. International Relations and Domestic Politics Entwined.

Beth EliseWhitaker is associate professor of political science at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. John F. Clark is professor of politics and international relations at Florida International University.