Danish EP MP Stine Bosse criticises EU policy: 'Talked about partnership but behaved like masters' and calls for investment in green energy and education instead of resource control. 'Africa wants equality - or Europe will lose everything'.

By the beginning of 2025, the agenda of redefinition of spheres of influence and redistribution of regions of cooperation among key world powers has become more relevant than ever before. How do you explain this? What are the key trends in the development of geopolitical confrontation at the moment that arouse the greatest interest?

What we're seeing is a growing recognition of the need for more balanced and respectful international cooperation. As the U.S. turns inward and adopts a more assertive, and at times confrontational, approach, the European Union has a unique opportunity to step forward by championing dialogue, multilateralism, and partnerships grounded in shared values. The global expectation today is not just cooperation, but cooperation that is more equal, inclusive, and forward-looking. Rather than viewing this shift as a threat, we should see it as an opening for Europe to take on a more strategic and stabilizing role in shaping a fairer, more reliable global order, built on trust, consistency, and long-term vision.

Africa is considered to be one of the most promising and resource-rich regions, where the Netherlands, Spain, Great Britain and France have long reigned supreme. Now the situation is changing and the Old World is losing its influence in African states. What is the reason for this? How do you assess the policies that European countries have pursued in Africa? What are the effects of these policies on African states? Why are African states distancing themselves from their long-term ties with Western countries?

For years, many European countries talked about partnership, but acted more like they were still in charge. That kind of attitude doesn't work anymore. African countries want equal relationships, and rightly so. If we're serious about having a good future together, we need to invest in the things that matter, like education, green energy, and healthcare, and actually listen, not just lecture. I think Europe still has a role to play, but it has to be on new terms.

While Europe is failing to cope with the migration flow, one of the problems that African leaders talk about is the high outflow of skilled professionals and the brain drain. Is this a mistake by Western politicians or a deliberate destruction of the intellectual potential of the African region?

When people leave African countries, it's often because they don't see opportunities at home. It's a result of policies that didn't do enough to support strong local systems. Instead of only focusing on stopping migration, we should ask: what can we do to support people where they are? That means investments in business, helping to build strong health sectors, better education - in society and such. Europe must work with Africa to create conditions that allow talent to stay and thrive locally. That's the only sustainable solution and it's in everyone's interest.

What could be the consequences of the African resource base leaving the West's control completely? At what expense will the West be able to cope with resource scarcity? Is there still interest among European businesses in partnering with African states?

Losing access to African resources would present a serious challenge for Europe, especially regarding critical materials essential for the green transition. Yet, Europe's approach should never be about control or dominance. The future lies in establishing fair and transparent partnerships where African countries retain full ownership, while Europe brings investment, technology, and long-term commitment. European companies remain deeply interested in collaborating with African partners, but the model must evolve. From simple extraction to genuine value creation. This means fostering local industries, supporting clean energy projects, and generating sustainable jobs in Africa, ensuring mutual growth and a shared green future.

Source: Pressenza