The Legon Centre for International Affairs and Diplomacy (LECIAD), in partnership with the Embassy of the Czech Republic and the Czech Institute Afripoli, has held a major dialogue on the theme “Security is Borderless: How Africa and Europe’s Security Are Connected.”
The event, chaired by Prof. Peter Quartey, Acting Director of LECIAD, brought together academics, diplomats, and security experts. Key speakers included Dr. Afua Boatemaa Yakohene and Dr. Ken Ahorsu (LECIAD), Mr. Vojtech Bílý (Czech Institute Afripoli), and Ghanaian journalist Mr. Kent Mensah. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Matěj Denk, Deputy Head of Mission at the Czech Embassy.
Why Africa and Europe’s Security Are Linked
In his opening remarks, Prof. Quartey stressed that Africa and Europe cannot treat security as separate issues.
“Should we operate in silos, or should we pay attention to what’s happening in Europe and beyond? The threats we face today affect not just our countries but the world at large,” he said.
Borderless Security in a Globalised World
Dr. Afua Boatemaa Yakohene explained that globalisation has erased many traditional borders, making security challenges transnational.
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Terrorism, organised crime, and irregular migration now cross borders easily.
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Climate change is worsening instability in regions like the Sahel.
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Lessons from the World Wars and the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war show how conflicts in one region can impact the entire globe.
Power, Identity, and Security Relations
Dr. Ken Ahorsu analysed Africa–Europe security ties through the concept of ontological security. He argued that Africa’s lack of unity weakens its influence in global security partnerships.
“Europe pushes its norms worldwide, while Africa remains fragmented. This imbalance keeps Africa in a weaker position,” he said.
Russia’s Expanding Role in Africa
Mr. Vojtech Bílý highlighted how Russia is using Africa as part of its wider geopolitical rivalry with Europe and NATO.
“Africa is not neutral ground. Russia sees it as a pawn in its global strategy. The EU must act as a reliable partner, while Africa must build stronger institutions,” he warned.
Lessons from Ukraine and Open Discussion
The panel also drew lessons from Ukraine’s experience, stressing the dangers of external interference in domestic conflicts.
A lively question-and-answer session followed, covering:
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Migration governance
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Cybersecurity threats
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Violent extremism
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Africa’s role in shaping fair partnerships with Europe
Key Takeaway: Security Needs Cooperation
In closing, the experts agreed that security is borderless. Africa and Europe must strengthen collaboration, share intelligence, and build resilience together instead of working in isolation.
The event was held on 1 September 2025 at the ISSER Conference Centre, University of Ghana.
source: myjoyonline
