A continent that is continually viewed as a victim from its history of marginalization and exploitation, African states struggle for their place in international relations. Africa is hardly studied...Show moreA continent that is continually viewed as a victim from its history of marginalization and exploitation, African states struggle for their place in international relations. Africa is hardly studied on its role and impact on exogenous actors and relations. Consequently, it is therefore simple to view Africa as the hopeless continent as it is primarily studied on its history of exploitation. However, African states have been amongst the first to declare themselves nuclear free zones, they drove the global campaign to end apartheid and much more (Van Wyk, 2015, 108). What is more is how African states have exerted agency in international relations. The use of unusual tactics like utilizing a victim discourse that has been prescribed to them to their advantage.Show less
Since the turn of the millennia, considerable rethinking of modern development aid has taken place. In this context, the High Level Fora on Aid Effectiveness which took place in Paris in 2005, and...Show moreSince the turn of the millennia, considerable rethinking of modern development aid has taken place. In this context, the High Level Fora on Aid Effectiveness which took place in Paris in 2005, and Busan in 2011, can both be regarded as important turning points. While the first brought about greater recognition of recipient ownership in the development process, the second strengthened the role of private sector actors. Against this background, this thesis sets out to investigate the ways in which collaboration between public and private actors has been realized in the case of Swedish development aid, and the role that recipient ownership has received in this context. Having been among the most progressive actors in the field of development aid, Sweden has sought close cooperation with the private sector, as well as aid recipients throughout its practices. In order to gain a better understanding of the changes which have taken place over the course of the years, a case study analysis is conducted of Sweden’s past engagement in the form of the ‘Small Industries Program’ in Tanzania on the one hand, and its recent private sector support through the ‘Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund’ on the other.Show less
