International Workshop on Germany´s West Africa policy, May 23.-25, 2018 in Berlin In collaboration with Professor Michael Staack (Helmut-Schmidt-University/ University of Federal Armed Forces Hamburg) and his Team, the Institute of Theology and Peace organized an international workshop on German West Africa policy. The workshop took place on May 23-25, 2018, at Dietrich-Bonhoeffer-Haus, Berlin. The aim of the workshop was to critically reflect on Germany´s policy towards the West African region based on a comprehensive approach (development, economy, politics, security, migration). During the workshop, the following topics have been discussed: the (new) concept of Germany´s West Africa policy, possible conflicts with French policies in the region and the new approach of the Macron presidency, current developments in West Africa, the perception of Germany´s new strategy/interest from a regional angle. The workshop assembled 20 academicians from West Africa (Mali, Ghana, Senegal), France and Germany and high-ranking ministry officials from the Federal Chancellery, Federal Foreign Office, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development as well as Federal Ministry of Defence. The very fruitful, open and productive discussions proceeded within five panels: – Peacebuilding in Mali – on the right track? – Western model of democracy vs. African social structures? – Security cooperation within ECOWAS and Sahel G 5 – German politics in the West African region – What are the most pressing challenges in West Africa? All participants agreed on the existence of a research gap on current German West African policy. Therefore, further research and academic exchange between Germany and West Africa is needed. The organizers intend to host a similar event in Dakar (Senegal) next year.
