5-6 November 2025

Addis Ababa/Online

Africa is increasingly exerting more influence in global governance. The African Union’s debut at the G20 and the continent’s collective call for UN reforms reflect growing momentum towards increased leadership, representation and impact. Initiatives to advance African-led security frameworks and reform global financial institutions are gaining traction; however, their success also remains conditional on support from key international allies.

Efforts to strengthen Africa’s collective bargaining power are unfolding amid deep geopolitical uncertainty. Growing intra-regional rivalries and declining cohesion within the AU raise doubts about whether current frameworks remain fit for purpose, and Africa’s ability to shape global outcomes continues to be constrained by structural inequalities and fragmentation. Navigating new and more flexible partnerships, strengthening leadership and regional integration, and advancing peace and economic sovereignty will be critical to shaping Africa’s trajectory in an increasingly multipolar world.

Held ahead of the G20 meeting in Johannesburg – the first to take place on African soil – this conference will examine how Africa can assert greater strategic influence on the global stage. Key questions to be explored include:

• What approaches should Africa adopt to navigate a rapidly evolving multipolar world and balance relationships with both established and emerging powers? 
• How can deeper continental and regional coordination enhance Africa’s collective leverage in global decision-making? 
• What strategies can Africa pursue to strengthen economic resilience, promote inclusive growth, and advance its priorities in global economic debates? 
• How can Africa strengthen and resource African-led peace and security initiatives to shape global norms and respond effectively to evolving security challenges? 
• In what ways can African-led initiatives in climate action and soft power diplomacy bolster Africa’s global influence and deliver meaningful outcomes?

This conference is being held in partnership with Amani Africa and taking place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 9:00am–4:30pm EAT on Wednesday 5 November, and 9:00am–1:15pm EAT on Thursday 6 November. 

This conference is being held with simultaneous interpretation in English and French.

Registration here