Fall 2021
Nebraska Ambassadors Forum Presents:
Africa’s Role in the Contemporary World
Monday, October 25, 2021
University of Nebraska Omaha
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
University of Nebraska Lincoln
About the 2021 Nebraska Ambassadors Forum
Africa is the only world region which will undergo a dramatic population increase by mid-century – with a doubling by 2050. This “Youth Tsunami” will represent either a significant force for economic growth and improved living conditions in Africa, or increased global terrorism, instability, and migration flows. In either case, the policies adopted now – by both the international community and African Governments – will determine which course the Continent follows. Yet Africa is currently the continent least understood by Americans; the perception – which is unfortunately amplified by Western media – is of a land of war, famine, and pestilence. But the reality is much more complex and nuanced. While no single panel can cover the myriad of issues in Africa’s 56 countries, three major themes form the basis for the discussion of the Ambassadors Forum of 2021.
Meet the Presenting Ambassadors
W. Stuart Symington IV
Wanda L. Nesbitt
Tibor P. Nagy, Jr.
Ambassador Symington
Ambassador Nesbitt
Ambassador Nagy
Meet the Moderator
Sher Jan Ahmadzai
Discussion Topics
Ambassador Wanda Nesbitt will speak on the topic of Economics and the Chinese Paradox:
Thanks to technology, Africa’s youth have the same expectations as young people on other continents. Their opportunity for jobs will be one of the key factors for whether African states move more toward improved livelihoods or toward a darker future. Development assistance has been unable to lead to development. Meanwhile, Africa’s investment climate remains problematic. How might one sort out the challenges of assistance, grants vs. loans, tough reform conditions and humanitarian aid? Where does China fit in the mix with its controversial investments and loans?
Ambassador Tibor Nagy will speak on the topic of Environment and Climate:
Environmental challenges are rising throughout the continent, impacting agriculture and seacoasts, as well as triggering conflicts. Many necessary policy responses lie outside African nations. But is Africa only a victim, or are there policies African states themselves could use to meet the challenge?
Ambassador Stuart Symington will speak on the topic of Conflicts and Stability:
Improving the economic environment and governance is impossible without peace and security. Yet it is often lack of opportunities and poor governance which nurture conflicts. While Africa’s overall stability has improved over the last several decades, a number of problematic conflicts remain unresolved and extremist violence is rapidly increasing in several regions.
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