Europe and Africa in Global Power Shifts — Reflections from Berlin

Experts from Europe and Africa debate economic shifts, multipolarity and the implications of ongoing geopolitical realignments.

On 14 April 2026, representatives from business, policy, and research came together at the offices of the Federation of German Industries (BDI) in Berlin for a high-level exchange on the evolving relationship between Europe and Africa amid shifting global dynamics. The event was jointly organised by BDI, the Hanns Seidel Foundation, the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), and Megatrends Afrika.

The programme opened with a keynote address by Member of Parliament and Chair of the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development, Dr Wolfgang Stefinger, who set the stage for a rich discussion on the long-term implications of the shifting distribution of global power. This was followed by a forward-looking input from Collin Meisel (University of Denver) on emerging global trends and their implications for both continents.

A panel discussion brought together diverse perspectives from academia, the private sector, and research. Dr Linda Lochner (Megatrends Afrika / Kiel Institute) spoke to economic opportunities, financial flows, and debt dynamics shaping Africa’s development trajectory. Priyal Singh (ISS) reflected on Africa’s growing role in a new multipolar world and the emerging opportunities this presents. Heike Bergmann (Voith Hydro Holding GmbH) offered a business perspective, sharing insights from the company’s work across Africa in the renewable energy sector. The discussion was expertly moderated by Dr Lena Gutheil (Megatrends Afrika / IDOS).

A particular highlight was a brief but substantive exchange with South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola — a timely encounter given South Africa’s prominent role in multilateral diplomacy and Africa’s broader repositioning in global affairs.

The event underscored the importance of structured, cross-sectoral dialogue between European and African partners at a moment when geopolitical realignments are reshaping opportunities and responsibilities on both sides. IDOS was represented by Dr Lena Gutheil and Dr Benedikt Erforth.