Part 2 - Trendlines and Transformations in African Democratic Governance: Lessons for 21st-Century US-Africa Relations

Tuesday, Jan. 14 // 10:30 am–12:00 pm (ET)

This discussion focuses on geopolitical shifts and evolving global actors in Africa and their interactions with and implications for US-Africa relations. Middle and emerging powers are playing an increasingly prominent role in conflict and security dynamics with direct implications on governance and security. Paramilitary and internationally sponsored conflict actors are taking advantage of the dire security and economic situations to provide repressive and manipulative capabilities to governments and warring parties.

The increased international presence and multitude of actors engaging in political and conflict dynamics are further complicated by shifting geopolitics, which contributes to uncertainty about responses to the existing and emerging challenges at the intersection of security and governance. While there has been greater inclusion of the African Union (AU) in global forums like the G20 and the UN, the AU’s relationship with African regional economic communities (RECs) will be vital. However, current challenges to the structures and mandates of RECs like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) raise the question of the efficacy of African inclusion in these forums if the continent continues to face security and governance challenges. Similarly, newer multilateral forums like BRICS continue advancing different agendas that potentially compete with US interests. It is unclear how prominent African powers, like Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia, will evolve in their relationship with the United States and Europe and what impact that might have on Africa’s global engagement more broadly.

This second event features African researchers and thought leaders sharing insights on how these geopolitical trends influence democratic governance across Africa and the emerging opportunities and challenges these trends pose to US-Africa relations.

STILL TO Come THIS WEEK

Combating Antisemitism as a Global Threat

Monday, Jan. 13 // 10–11:30 am (ET)

Join us for a high-level discussion featuring global leaders and experts who will share lessons learned, explore best practices, and propose actionable strategies for addressing antisemitism as a global challenge. This event is open to policymakers, scholars, community leaders, and all those committed to combating hate and building more inclusive societies.

Europe without Borders: A History

Monday, Jan. 13 // 4–5:30 pm (ET)

In Europe without Borders, Isaac Stanley-Becker explores the contested creation of free movement in Schengen, from treatymaking at European summits and disputes in international courts to the street protests of undocumented immigrants who claimed free movement as a human right.

Canada and the US: Partnering for Prosperity in Energy and Beyond

Wednesday, Jan. 15 // 10:30–11:30 am (ET)

Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of North American energy collaboration featuring Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson, and Heather Reams, President of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. This special event will delve into key issues surrounding US-Canada energy partnerships, exploring opportunities for innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the energy sector.

USMCA 2026 Review: New Realities and Strategic Shifts in North American Trade

Thursday, Jan. 16 // 10:30 am–12:00 pm (ET)

This event will convene experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore the USMCA review process, including its implications for North American trade, investment, and competitiveness. The discussion will cover the latest developments since November, including leadership changes in the USTR, evolving dynamics in the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance committees, and key shifts in Canadian and Mexican trade strategies.

Fractured Extraction: Shifts in China’s Rare Earths Policy – A Green Tea Chat with Cory Combs and Jessica DiCarlo

Thursday, Jan. 16 // 2–3:00 pm (ET)

Join us in a conversation with Cory Combs (Trivium China) and Jessica DiCarlo (University of Utah) to explore how China is shaking up the governance of its domestic rare earth production in response to the global demand for clean energy technologies. Rare earth production, once seen as a cheap and polluting industry by Chinese policymakers, is now reframed as crucial for sustainable development.