MCC's latest Budapest Lectures examined the evolving global power dynamics between Africa, Europe, and the United States. The discussion featured W. Gyude Moore, Former Minister for Public Works of Liberia and Global Neighbours Inaugural Visiting Fellow at the Hungarian Institute for International Affairs, alongside Ralph Schoellhammer, Head of the Center for Applied History and International Relations Theory at MCC. Their conversation explored how strategic alignments, economic shifts, and investment trends are shaping the modern multipolar world.
Moore highlighted that Europe has traditionally viewed Africa as a source of raw materials rather than as a destination for long-term capital investment. Meanwhile, China has taken a different approach, focusing on large-scale infrastructure projects across the continent. This long-term engagement has given China a strategic foothold in Africa, while Europe’s influence appears to be declining. However, Africa still recognizes Europe’s prosperity as beneficial to its own economic development.
He cited Morocco, where European factories have significantly invested in industrial infrastructure. He also pointed to Senegal, Kenya, Ghana, Togo, and Zambia as countries well-positioned for economic growth due to political stability, industrial expansion, and education-focused development.
Regarding global trade and investment, Moore addressed structural challenges facing both China and the U.S. He noted that China has become increasingly dependent on exports, particularly compared to its position in the early years of the Trump administration.
Discussing the EU’s Global Gateway project, Moore questioned whether it truly represents a significant financial commitment or if it is simply diplomatic rhetoric. “It feels more like a conference,” he remarked, suggesting its effectiveness should be reassessed in three years.
