The Decline of America Soft Power in Africa:
A Strategic Opportunity for the European Union
(EU) and Germany

Abstract

The world is changed. The withdrawal and self-isolation of the United States of America (U.S.) has left a soft power gab
globally and particularly in Africa. The European Union (EU) is however sticking out as one of the alternative partners of
choice for Africa, hence US withdrawal might be an opportunity for EU to engage more assertively in Africa. For that, EU
has to examine the role it wants to play in the future and adeptly combine its economic and political power as it engages
the world and particularly, Africa. In the short-term, Germany will have to take a leadership role by filling the soft power
gap, which can be achieved by recalibrating its domestic narrative and approach to Africa. German foreign actions have
to mirror the rising self-confidence of the African partners with the objectives to gain the support and trust of the African
public, to join efforts with Africa in the international system and to build a long and stable partnership beneficial for both
Europe and Africa.