Understanding conflicts in Africa: a review of geopolitical instability and its root causes

Abstract

Currently, Africa remains a specific region characterized by high tensionsstemming from various intra-state uprisings and inter-state conflicts. The roots of this situation liein political instability, economic inequality, and the social fragmentation of the population, whichhas a long history. The diversity of ethnicities, religious movements, and colonial experiences onthis continent have often served as a basis for deepening social divisions and the passage ofviolent clashes.In recent decades, the conflict situation has been further complicated by the growinginfluence of non-state actors on the continent, external intervention by economically developedstates, and the intensification of competition for natural resources at the global level. Thesefactors have become drivers of the intensification of existing tensions in the region.By examining the main drivers of instability - from governance deficits and economicisolation to ethnic resentments and environmental problems, this study aims to develop a holisticunderstanding of the specifics of conflicts in Africa. Particular attention is paid to howcontemporary challenges, such as international geopolitical rivalry and resource scarcity,intersect with traditional sources of tension, making conventional conflict resolution mechanismsincreasingly ineffective.The study found that resolving African conflicts requires a paradigm shift from isolatedsectoral interventions to comprehensive, synergistic strategies that simultaneously address theroot causes in political, economic and social aspects. For example, the joint infrastructureprogram of the European Union and the African Union worth €750 million demonstrates howinfrastructure and economic integration can function as tools for building peace and stability. There are a large number of similar initiatives, such as the African Union Agenda 2063, whichenvisages the development of African countries to transform the region into a peaceful andprosperous one, but their implementation is hampered by insufficient investment and protractedconflicts.