Open AccessON THE PROSPECTS OF THE UK-AFRICA COOPERATION AFTER BREXIT
Author(s) -
Kira Godovanyuk
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
vestnik udmurtskogo universiteta. sociologiâ. politologiâ. meždunarodnye otnošeniâ
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2587-9030
pISSN - 2587-6163
DOI - 10.35634/2587-9030-2020-4-2-179-185
Subject(s) - summit , commonwealth , brexit , political science , government (linguistics) , rhetoric , position (finance) , competition (biology) , economic growth , international trade , economy , economics , european union , geography , linguistics , philosophy , finance , physical geography , law , ecology , biology
UK’s interests in Africa are driven by economic perspectives and natural resources. This becomes more relevant in the age of global transformation of contemporary system of international relations. In 2018 British government set to become the biggest investor to Africa among G7 countries. On the eve of formal withdrawal from the EU, London hosted the first UK-Africa Investment summit confirming British commitment to strengthen economic and business cooperation with Africa in post-Brexit age. After leaving the EU, the UK is free to pursue its own international trade agenda, the authorities pledged to boost UK position in Africa in light of growing competition. The UK’s historical ties with the region is an advantage (19 out of 53 members of Commonwealth is located in Africa). The author concludes that the African countries expect that London will liberalize its internal market for African products and migration rule for African people. Of particular importance in the dialogue with the countries of the Black Continent is the rhetoric of promoting the environmental agenda and assistance in combating epidemics. Discussion remains, however, about the extent to which Britain's humanitarian programmes and international development assistance can contribute to London's strategic objectives in Africa. In light of COVID-19 pandemic London has a chance to enhance its image in Africa.