Why we should care about the AU–EU Summit in Angola

Mandira Bagwandeen, Jelena Vidojević - The AU-EU Relationship at a Crossroads: Nudging Africa Closer to the East?

Colonialism is alive and well in the EU Mandira Bagwandeen – Stellenbosch University; New South Institute Jelena Vidojević – New South Institute Photo: African Union The recent 7th African Union-European Union (AU-EU) Summit held in November 2025 in Luanda, Angola, was, by all accounts, a masterclass in political choreography. Two continental blocs, the latter rich in capital and historical influence (though that influence seems to be fading), t…

Why we should care about the AU–EU Summit in Angola

By Rune SKINNEBACH, EU Ambassador to Ghana Two weeks ago Angola hosted one of the most consequential African Union–European Union Summits in years—an event that brought together 35 Heads of State and Government, alongside leaders from the UN, civil society, youth networks, and private sector. Rarely do so many decision-makers gather in one room. And when they do, outcomes shape the future—not only for diplomats and business leaders in Africa and…