Senegal: A new west African leader in a globalized world?

Abstract

Since independence in 1960, Senegal has been playing a major role in the regional scene and has emerged as one of the main builders of "state PanAfricanism." Its leadership has established a proactive foreign policy, inspired by the first President Leopold S. Senghor, and built around the ideas of dialogue of cultures, peace promotion, and human rights. Since the early 2000s, in the context of increased globalization, Senegal has adapted its leadership at the regional level to the new economic challenges and environment, by making key contributions to the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD). Senegal also tries to exert its soft power by capitalizing on its stable democratic system, inclusive development, and remarkable social capital.