The EU sought to fill the gaps left by decolonisation, making it a crucial international partner for African countries. Towards the background of a close yet often troubled relationship, the question is how the EU is perceived in Africa.
Is it viewed as a coherent and effective foreign policy actor? Is it viewed in a positive or rather negative light?
And what are the prospects for future relations between the EU and Africa in an emerging multipolar order? Nevertheless, as pointed out by Marie Gibert, European states face considerable suspicion or even resentment in many places in Africa, especially West Africa.
The EU faces this challenge to a more limited degree. The traditional EU approach centred on multilateralism and soft power has led to a sense of partnership over the years, reflected foremost in the Joint Africa-EU Strategy.
The EU has played an important role in facilitating and collaborating on human rights, particularly through its declaratory diplomacy. This has allowed the EU to carve out an image of a normative power for itself, which has translated into effective outcomes.
