G20 Countries with Limited Influence in Africa: A Geopolitical Analysis

Alexis Rowe

Alexis Rowe

April 10, 2025 · 3 min read
G20 Countries with Limited Influence in Africa: A Geopolitical Analysis

The Geopolitical Influence and Peace Report has revealed the top 10 G20 countries with the smallest influence in Africa, with Spain ranking number one on the list. This report provides valuable insights into the complex web of relationships between G20 countries and Africa, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that come with limited influence.

Historical links often play a significant role in shaping the influence of G20 countries in Africa. Countries like the United Kingdom and France, with their colonial past, have a more significant presence on the continent compared to nations like South Korea and Australia, which have fewer historical and linguistic ties to Africa. While this may result in fewer historical complaints, it also restricts diplomatic and economic gains.

Countries with limited African influence often prioritize focused economic ties over continent-wide participation. They may favor a few resource-rich or strategically important countries, such as Australia's focus on mining projects in Southern Africa or South Korea's investments in technology and manufacturing in certain countries. These selective economic partnerships can be advantageous compared to countries like China and the United States, which have large infrastructural and commercial linkages with multiple African states.

However, keeping a smaller footprint in Africa has both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, fewer entanglements equal fewer allegations of exploitation or neocolonialism, enabling more flexible diplomacy and perhaps more sustainable alliances. On the other hand, lesser influence results in less bargaining power and a reduced role in defining Africa's economic and geopolitical destiny.

The report by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) provides a comprehensive analysis of the G20 countries' influence in Africa. The top 10 countries with the fewest number of African friends are Spain, Italy, South Korea, Brazil, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Indonesia, Türkiye, and Switzerland. These countries have limited economic and diplomatic ties with Africa, which can impact their ability to drive policy alignment and win advantageous trade conditions.

The implications of this report are far-reaching, highlighting the need for G20 countries to reassess their relationships with Africa. As the continent continues to grow in economic and geopolitical importance, countries with limited influence may need to adapt their strategies to remain relevant. This could involve strengthening historical links, prioritizing focused economic ties, or adopting more flexible diplomatic approaches.

In conclusion, the Geopolitical Influence and Peace Report provides a valuable insight into the complex dynamics of G20 countries' influence in Africa. As the global economy continues to evolve, understanding these relationships will be crucial for countries seeking to expand their economic and diplomatic presence on the continent.

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