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This briefing paper examines the policy tools available to Eastern African states to foster 'national champions' in the mining sector and maximize sustainable development benefits from foreign direct investment. It analyzes the effectiveness of ownership and performance requirements and evaluates how international investment agreements, specifically Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs), may restrict the policy space of host governments.

This briefing by the International Institute for Sustainable Development examines agricultural cooperatives as a model for inclusive investment. It details the types of cooperatives, their benefits for smallholders, the role of foreign investment in reducing risk and improving skills, and the necessary government support and legal frameworks to ensure their success without undue state interference.

This policy brief by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) analyzes the 2014 South African Defence Review. It describes the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) as being in a state of critical decline and evaluates the financial feasibility of the government's long-term plan to rejuvenate the military by 2034. The author argues that the review's expansive mandate is out of step with the available budget and suggests a more focused approach centered on peacekeeping and a 'growth core' concept.

This research paper by Khabele Matlosa examines the evolution of democratic governance in Africa, focusing on the relationship between the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG). It analyzes the transition from the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) to the African Union (AU), the challenges of implementing governance reviews and National Programmes of Action (NPoAs), and proposes strategic imperatives to enhance synergy between the AU's governance and peace architectures.

This policy note from the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the challenges and progress in African fisheries governance, focusing on the tension between economic development, environmental sustainability, and social justice. It analyzes the roles of small-scale and industrial fisheries, the impact of illegal, unregulated, and unreported (IUU) fishing, and the transition toward co-management systems to address the limitations of centralized governance.

An open letter from a coalition of social movements, NGOs, and activists to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, urging a revision of the official definition of 'forests' to better reflect the biological diversity and the needs of forest-dependent communities.

This research paper analyzes the proposed New Development Bank (NDB) led by the BRICS nations, examining its potential funding models, spending priorities, and currency choices. The author argues that a democratic governance structure with equal contributions is the most viable path to ensure the bank's legitimacy and facilitate the entry of other emerging economies.

This policy brief examines Africa's role in the international nuclear security framework, specifically in the context of the 2014 Nuclear Security Summit in The Hague. It argues for the development of a continental nuclear security framework to ensure that international measures address real regional threats without hindering the peaceful use of nuclear technology.

This research paper by Carlos Milani analyzes the evolution of Brazilian foreign policy, specifically its South–South co-operation (SSC) strategies. It argues for a shift in conceptualizing foreign policy as a 'public policy' rather than a static state policy, reflecting a plurality of domestic actors and interests. The document details Brazil's engagement with Africa and other developing nations through technical co-operation, trade, and political coalitions like BRICS and IBSA, while noting the strategic role of both state agencies and private corporations in these efforts.

This research paper by the Institute for Security Studies presents three plausible scenarios for South Africa's economic and political trajectory up to 2030: 'Bafana Bafana' (continued underachievement), 'Mandela Magic' (high growth and vision), and 'Nation Divided' (political instability and populist decline). Using the International Futures forecasting system, the author analyzes how leadership choices, particularly within the African National Congress (ANC) and its alliance with COSATU, will impact GDP, employment, and social stability.

This report, prepared by the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) and the Overseas Development Institute (ODI), distils the findings of the IPCC's Fifth Assessment Report specifically for African decision-makers. It details the observed and projected climate changes across the continent, the resulting risks to food security, health, and economic growth, and the opportunities for adaptation and low-carbon development.

This discussion brief by the Stockholm Environment Institute reviews global studies to estimate the international finance required for climate change mitigation, specifically for a warming trajectory of no more than 2°C. It distinguishes between various metrics—such as total, incremental, and net climate-relevant investment—and highlights a significant gap between current funding and the needs of developing (non-OECD) countries.

This research paper analyzes the shifting landscape of maritime piracy in Africa, contrasting the decline of Somalia-based piracy with the significant rise of attacks in the Gulf of Guinea. It examines the different tactics used in these regions, the impact on Africa's 'blue economy', and the regional security strategies being implemented by West African states and the African Union.

This report by the Center for International Environmental Law provides an overview of cases from 2013 involving the harassment, criminalization, and killing of land and environmental rights defenders globally. It highlights the systemic risks faced by individuals opposing extractive industries, large-scale development projects, and land grabbing, noting that these defenders are often targeted by both state forces and non-state actors, including corporations.

This research paper examines the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) and net investment income on South Africa's current account deficit. It argues that while FDI is beneficial for growth, the trend of transnational companies prioritizing short-term shareholder value over long-term reinvestment creates economic vulnerabilities, particularly during downturns. The author recommends policy shifts to attract FDI that is labour-absorbing, export-oriented, and focused on reinvesting profits within the domestic economy.

This policy briefing examines the role of civil society organisations (CSOs) within the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), arguing that the process can transform non-state actors from adversaries into governance partners. While the APRM mandates CSO inclusion in national assessments and governing structures, the author identifies significant challenges in maintaining momentum post-review and ensuring the quality of representation. The document provides recommendations for governments to involve CSOs in the implementation phase and for CSOs to leverage their exposure to state dynamics for sustained policy dialogue.

This policy note by the South African Institute of International Affairs evaluates the first decade of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), analyzing its structural challenges, achievements in opening political space, and the systemic failures in implementing National Programmes of Action (NPoAs).

This research paper examines Brazil's strategic shift toward the South Atlantic, driven by the discovery of pre-salt oil and gas reserves. It details Brazil's efforts to secure these resources through naval modernization, legal claims to extend its continental shelf, and expanded military cooperation with African nations to establish a regional identity and deter outside powers.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of InternationalCS International Affairs (SAIIA) argues that 'best practices' identified within the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) are an underutilised resource for peer learning. While over 200 practices have been documented across 15 country review reports, the author contends they remain confined to these reports with little impact. The document recommends formalising the definition of best practices, integrating their identification into country self-assessments, and creating dedicated repositories and forums to disseminate these home-grown solutions to improve governance across Africa.

This policy briefing examines the engagement of African nations with the G-20's financial regulation and development initiatives. It highlights the challenges of aligning international standards, such as Basel II/III, with local developmental goals and identifies the institutional channels through which African countries can influence global financial policy.