The IESUE, an autonomous agency that provides critical analysis to inform the EU's strategic choices, released a report on September 17, 2026, titled "Levers of Influence - Africa: Diplomatic Power." The study evaluates and ranks the political influence, diplomatic outreach, and soft power of African nations globally. It assesses the influence of featured countries based on their diplomatic presence, high-level political visits, official partnerships, and participation in international summits.
According to the study, Algeria is among six African countries that host the 15 identified international actors, including the European Union, China, the United States, and Russia. The other five countries are Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Senegal, and Tunisia. Algeria's unique position as a diplomatic hub between competing external powers in Africa is highlighted in the report. Its importance lies not only in the number of embassies it hosts but also in its position within the international competition network for influence in Africa.
The study's findings have been attributed to Algeria's diplomatic presence, which is considered a tool of political influence and soft power. The country's ability to host a significant number of international actors and its active participation in global forums have contributed to its ranking. Algeria's diplomatic efforts are guided by its national and humanitarian values, which have enabled it to maintain a strong presence in international forums, particularly during its tenure as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
Observers have noted that Algeria's diplomacy plays a crucial role in defending African interests and developing relations with regional neighbors. The country's diplomatic approach aims to preserve national peace and security through constructive and multilateral negotiations, making it a key mediator and partner in its environment. This approach has been consistent since Algeria's independence, with a focus on solidarity with peoples fighting against colonial occupation.
Algeria's historical responsibility as a mediator and partner is reflected in its support for the Palestinian and Sahrawi peoples. The country's diplomatic efforts have been recognized for their perspicacity, aiming to resolve conflicts through peaceful means. The IESUE study has acknowledged Algeria's significant influence in Africa, which is built on its diplomatic presence, high-level political engagement, and participation in international summits.
The study's results have also highlighted the notable absence of Morocco from the list of countries with significant diplomatic influence in Africa. In contrast, Algeria's diplomatic achievements have been praised for their consistency and commitment to African and humanitarian values. The report's findings are expected to inform the EU's strategic choices and highlight the importance of Algeria's role in regional and international affairs.
Key points
- Algeria ranks among the top African countries in terms of diplomatic influence, according to a study by the European Union's Institute for Security Studies.
- The study evaluates countries based on their diplomatic presence, high-level political visits, official partnerships, and participation in international summits.
- Algeria's unique position as a diplomatic hub between competing external powers in Africa has been highlighted in the report.
