African Countries and South Africa: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
Exploring Relations, Realities, Perceptions, and Possibilities
The Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) invites academics, researchers, analysts, diplomats, policymakers, journalists, and public intellectuals to submit papers for a forthcoming publication and policy dialogue on the following:
African Countries and South Africa: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
South Africa occupies a unique place in Africa’s history, politics, economy, and imagination. From the anti-apartheid struggle that inspired continental solidarity to contemporary debates on migration, trade, diplomacy, security, identity, and Pan-Africanism, the relationship between South Africa and the rest of Africa remains one of the most consequential in African affairs.
Recent events, including debates on migration, xenophobia, regional integration, economic competition, continental leadership, and even sporting rivalries, have renewed interest in how Africans view South Africa and how South Africa views Africa.
This call seeks contributions that explore the historical foundations, contemporary realities, and future prospects of relations between South Africa and other African countries.
We are particularly interested in contributions that move beyond simplistic narratives and offer fresh perspectives, original research, policy insights, historical reflections, comparative analyses, and forward-looking recommendations.
Suggested Areas of Interest
Contributors may wish to consider the following themes, among others:
Historical Perspectives
- Africa and the anti-apartheid struggle
- The role of African countries in South Africa’s liberation
- Pan-Africanism and South Africa
- South Africa’s place in African political thought
- Historical perceptions of South Africa across Africa
Politics and Diplomacy
- South Africa as a continental power
- South Africa’s foreign policy in Africa
- Relations between South Africa and regional blocs
- Leadership, influence, and continental diplomacy
- South Africa and African multilateral institutions
Economics and Development
- Trade and investment relations between South Africa and African countries
- South African businesses across Africa
- Economic integration and regional development
- Industrialisation, innovation, and economic cooperation
- Competition and collaboration in African markets
Migration, Identity, and Society
- Migration within Africa
- Xenophobia and social cohesion
- Citizenship, belonging, and African identity
- Perceptions and stereotypes among African peoples
- African mobility and the future of integration
Culture, Media, and Public Perception
- South Africa in African popular culture
- Media representations of South Africa across Africa
- Literature, film, music, and cultural exchanges
- Sport, identity, and continental solidarity
- The role of social media in shaping perceptions
Governance, Security, and International Relations
- Peacekeeping and conflict resolution
- Security cooperation in Africa
- South Africa’s role in continental governance
- Democracy, constitutionalism, and institution-building
- South Africa in global affairs and Africa’s international positioning
Looking Ahead
- The future of South Africa-Africa relations
- Reimagining Pan-Africanism
- Building trust and mutual understanding
- New opportunities for cooperation
- Africa’s next generation and the future of continental solidarity
Other Topics Welcome
The themes listed above are intended as suggestions rather than as limitations. Contributors are encouraged to exercise initiative and creativity in identifying issues, questions, and perspectives they consider relevant to understanding the evolving relationship between South Africa and the rest of Africa.
Both scholarly and policy-oriented contributions are welcome. Interdisciplinary approaches, comparative studies, case analyses, reflective essays, and evidence-based commentaries are especially encouraged.
Who Should Submit?
We welcome submissions from:
- Academics and scholars
- Researchers and doctoral candidates
- Policy analysts
- Diplomats and international affairs practitioners
- Government officials and policymakers
- Journalists and media professionals
- Civil society actors
- Independent thinkers and public intellectuals
Why This Conversation Matters
Understanding South Africa’s relationship with Africa is not merely an academic exercise. It is essential to understand the continent’s past, interpret its present, and shape its future. The questions raised by this relationship touch on leadership, identity, solidarity, development, integration, reputation, and the very meaning of the African project.
We invite contributors to help deepen this important conversation.
Submission Details
Abstract Length: 300–500 words
Full Paper Length: 4,000–7,500 words
Abstract Submission Deadline: 31 July 2026
Notification of Acceptance: 15 August 2026
Full Paper Submission Deadline: 30 September 2026
Publication Date: December 2026
Submission Email: ciapspress@ciaps.org
Organised by
CIAPS Research and Policy Forum
Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS)