Caught between a Rock and a Hard Place? Africa’s Position in the US–China Strategic Rivalry

Abstract

The US–China strategic rivalry is affecting investments around the world. Most countries are walking a tightrope, trying to align with both rivals simultaneously while maintaining neutrality. A neutral position is important especially for developing countries that are dependent on China and the US for investments and development aid. The countries of one continent are taking a different path though, aligning their foreign policy with China’s. While the African continent is strategically important to both rivals, we currently see that almost all African countries align with China. We discuss the reasons behind this and the implications for practitioners and IB scholars.