This panel asks how a common future can be shaped. Which possible role models exist, which ideas and previous realisations help to build sustainable projects, institutions and spaces for reflection? This panel focuses on existing and planned events, alliances and network ideas.
Flower Manase | The future of Africa-Europe “collaboration” on shared history
This presentation intends to discuss the Future of Africa-Europe “collaborative projects” in the 21st Century under the aspect of shared history. However, I’ll start by questioning the “shared history” terminology to broaden the discussion. First, what does the term “shared history” or “shared heritage” mean? Second, what are the existing similarities or common features in this history? I argue that “shared history” is diplomatic jargon that hides or erodes the underlying factors in the history of colonialism that were supposed to be discussed for critical self-reflection in order to provide guidance for future “collaborative projects”. The history of colonialism is profound, as it influences the current social, economic and political status of the former colonial states (Africa). This history has created a margin that still separates colonizers from colonized through inequality, racism, segregation, oppression, and exploitation. In that understanding, the discussion of the future of Africa-Europe collaboration still faces problematic concerns regarding discussions. However, this presentation suggests sensitive approaches should be considered at both ends in order to build new relationships, openness partnership, and consultancy and to resolve trust issues.