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September 17, 2004

New Pan-African Congress Opens

I like all new democratic bodies, so I'm happy that a new Pan-African Parliament is opening for business, representing delegates from 53 member states in Africa.

It's just a talking shop now, but hopefully it can evolve into a parliamentary body with legislative teeth over time. Africa is afflicted with colonial borders with little rhyme or reason, so nation-states often lack legitimacy compared to religious and tribal subdivisions. In a Madisonian sense, politics across a pan-African space might invite a healthier politics to emerge over time.

And the lefty in me hopes that it encourages a bit more tough bargaining with multinational countries and northern states over trade deals and other economic relationships.

It's a new baby, but I welcome it into the world.

Posted by Nathan at September 17, 2004 06:22 PM