After rejecting France’s colonial legacy, Africa is entering into a new era. The beginning of this was marked by France’s retreat from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
An era of the unhealed wounds
Economic or political, whenever France speaks on their behalf, Africans never have a say. The picture is the same when it comes to decision-making. African human rights and civic activists appear to be the most likely heroes. When it comes to defending democracy and sovereignty (political, economic, or security), their opinion and concern are beyond talk. In the 16th century, France began to establish colonies in the Americas, the Caribbean, and India. After its defeat in the Seven Years’ War, it lost most of its possessions.After 1850 it rebuilt a new empire, mainly in Africa as well as Indochina and the South Pacific.So The French presence in Africa dates back to the 17th century. In the 19th century, with the invasion of Ottoman Algiers in 1830, the main period of colonial propagation came.
Over a period of 178 years, France colonized 21–22 countries, including territories in Africa. After the British Empire, it had the second most colonies in the world.
An ‘imposed’ democratic system that is responsible for France’s rejection
According to pro-democracy network Tournons La Page (TLP) and the Center for International Research (CERI) of Sciences Po, a vast study shows the French army is considered incapable of meeting security challenges, but its influence would remain significant according to 85% of the activists surveyed, while “the military influence of the United States is considered significant by 40% of those surveyed, that of Russia by 25% (with a Cameroonian exception at 61%), that of China by 13% (28% in Chad), and that of Turkey by 6%).”
The democratic system is described as an imported, sometimes imposed, political model. They also highlight France’s double standards: support for coups d’état in Chad and Gabon and denunciation of coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
The study also shows that France is not a reliable partner when it comes to security, and 78% of them believe that it is not a reliable partner.
Paris dominated former colonies through military presence. Political influence and economic ties were played along to maintain its grip. For decades French businesses dominated local economies. ‘French troops and resentment’ as French troops meant to ensure security, it became a symbol of resentment.
‘Turkey, Russia, and China’ are the golden trio for Africa
Türkiye, Russia, and China are stepping in as France has been rejected. Russia’s Wagner Group provides military support in countries like Mali and Burkina Faso. China’s huge investment has appeared as an attractive economic alternative.Türkiye also gained attraction through many significant works and has accomplished many big projects. Their influences help Africa while rejecting neocolonial structure.
A new era, a future of equality
As the term ‘equality’ has appeared, there is no going back. Africa is preferring partnerships that prioritize dignity, respect, and mutual benefit. They are waiting for a future of equality.
