Power and Poverty in Africa-EU Relations

Module description

This module will examine key debates and controversies surrounding the EU’s relationship with former colonies in Africa. The module will begin with a critical assessment of the history of the ‘Eurafrican’ partnership from the Treaty of Rome to the post-Cotonou agreement. This will highlight African leaders’ agency and critiques of European neo-colonialism. It will also underscore Europe’s attempts to maintain access to African resources amid decolonisation, its geopolitical interest in Africa in the context of the Cold War, the impact of the New International Economic Order, as well as the (Post) Washington Consensus and the shift to neoliberal development frameworks. Applying key theories and concepts addressed in the historical assessment and overview, the module will then examine contemporary controversies. This will include Africa-EU co-operation in relation to i) trade, ii) poverty reduction, iii) gender justice and human rights, iv) health, v) migration, and vi) climate change.

Okay for UAM students 

Assessment details

1 X 2500-word essay (100%)

Educational aims & objectives

The proposed module aims to:

• Help students develop an advanced understanding of key debates and controversies pertaining to the Africa-EU relationship
• Deepen students historical understanding of the emergence of the post-colonial relationship between Europe and former colonies, and African agency therein
• Develop students ability to apply key theories and concepts in the assessment of the Africa-EU relationship
• Enable students to critically evaluate the impact of Africa-EU co-operation upon poverty reduction and economic development in the African continent

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will:

• Show the ability to critically engage and apply key concepts and theories in the critical assessment of Africa-EU relations
• Utilise regional and national case studies in the evaluation of Africa-EU co-operation
• Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and critique scholarly literature on Africa-EU ties
• Understand the importance of historical insights and perspectives for making sense of contemporary challenges in the Africa-EU relationship 

Teaching pattern

1-hour lecture and 1-hour seminar weekly

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.