The Emirates' Inroads Into Africa: A Case Study of Mimicry in International Relations

Abstract

Africa is a resource-rich continent. However, the continent is yet to fully benefit from its natural wealth, partly because developed countries have been exploiting its natural wealth and resources in line with the World Systems theory. In recent times, China has successfully exploited Africa's wealth using its technological and capital capabilities through its Belt and Road Initiative as well as by positioning itself as a partner offering “mutual respect” and “win-win” outcomes to Africa. Using a case study of the United Arab Emirates, this article shows that other developing countries may have started to mimic, albeit with some modifications, China's model of exploiting Africa. Moreover, anecdotal evidence shows that even established Western countries such as the United States and European countries have joined suit. This suggests that mimicry has become one of the international relations strategies. This reality is risky for African countries since economic gains from mimicking in international relations could be prioritized by developed countries at the expense of some more traditional rules of engagement, which also demand the upholding of human rights and democracy. It is against this background that the present study proposes that Africa should shake off its periphery status by implementing its own policies and regulatory frameworks, improving its governance system, taking advantage of its population dividend, and embracing technology as both a catalyst and job creator.

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