China and the Rise of Africa’s New Autocrats

Anzetse Were is a Nairobi-based international development economist and newspaper columnist who is increasingly worried about a resurgence of autocratic rule in Africa. Buoyed by the United States’ apparent receding interest in promoting democratic and civil society values around the world, Africa’s authoritarian leaders are now seemingly taking comfort in their countries’ deepening ties with China.

Conversation

11.27.17

What Does Mugabe’s Resignation Mean for China?

David Shinn, Huang Hongxiang & more

On November 15, soldiers placed the 93-year-old Robert Mugabe under house arrest. Mugabe had ruled Zimbabwe since the country gained independence in 1980. On November 21, he resigned after 37 years in power. China, Zimbabwe’s largest foreign...

Beijing, for its part, makes a point of not meddling in the internal affairs of other countries, which comes as welcome news for those countries that now depend more on the People’s Republic of China for trade and investment.

Were joins Eric and Cobus to discuss her concerns about rising authoritarian rule in Africa and why this should matter to China.

Recommendations

“China Is Going on the Diplomatic Offensive While America Sits on the Sidelines,” Joshua Keating, Slate, November 27, 2017

“What the Mugabe Coup Says About China’s Plans for Africa,” Bobby Jordan, South China Morning Post, December 1, 2017