Israel and Africa: The United Nations and the patterns of Israel's relations with Africa
Abstract:
In her analysis of Israel's relations with Africa, Dr. Irit Back examines the historical and current characteristics of these relations and the patterns of support for Israel at the United Nations in the context of the African continent.
According to Dr. Back, the relations between Israel and Africa have known highs and lows, with the nature of the relations based primarily on the strategic interests of Israel concerning its Arab enemies and their attempts to isolate Israel from the International community.
Golda Meir dancing with Margaret Kenyatta (daughter of Kenya’s leader Jomo Kenyatta), Kenya, 1960. Source: Eitan Bar-Yosef
Following this analysis, Dr. Back presents a broad insight to the nature of the relationship in light of recent events such as the Abraham Accords and the current war in the aftermath of the October 7th events.
Dr. Back concludes that consistent engagement with its African partners would allow Israel to grow its support in the international arena. Such engagement should be made primarily in expansion of trade and economic investments and by diplomatic efforts in the United Nations and its parallel international organizations.
Download the full research paper below.
Dr. Back presented these findings on July 2, 2024, at Tel Aviv University during the “Africa and Israel: Building Strategic and Economic Bridges” conference. The event was co-organized by the Israel-Africa Relations Institute, the S. Daniel Abraham Center for International & Regional Studies at Tel Aviv University, and the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS). You’re welcome to watch her presentation below.
