Regional Theme 3: Sub-Saharan Africa
On 24 and 25 April 2026, the High Studies for Security and Defence dedicated their eighth seminar to the security, geopolitical and strategic challenges facing the African continent, against an international backdrop characterised by competition for resources, regional instability and complex historical legacies.
The first day began with an in-depth analysis of the geopolitics of critical minerals, presented by Filip Reyniers (IPIS). This presentation highlighted Africa’s central role in global supply chains and the security implications associated with the exploitation of strategic resources.
A highlight of the seminar was the address by the Minister of Defence, Mr Theo Francken, who spoke on Belgium’s vision of security, international cooperation and the role of the armed forces in addressing contemporary African challenges. This ministerial visit provided a key political perspective, which was particularly appreciated within the framework of High Studies for Security and Defence.
The afternoon continued with an analysis of the instability in the Sahel region by Prof. Nina Wilén of the Egmont Institute, followed by a presentation on North Africa and the Greater Maghreb by Prof. Vincent Legrand (Université catholique de Louvain), allowing regional security dynamics to be examined from various angles.
The second day was devoted to Belgian development cooperation in Africa, presented by Régine Debrabandere (ENABEL), followed by an in-depth analysis of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its regional and global environment by Jean-Jacques Wondo (Afridesk).
The seminar concluded with a critical reflection on Europe’s relationship with its colonial past, delivered by Peter Verlinden, highlighting the lasting impact of history on contemporary relations. These two days provided a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the challenges facing Africa, combining political and academic perspectives, whilst emphasising the importance of dialogue between civilian and military decision-makers.
