European Foreign Policy. The View from the African Union. 10 May 2012, LSE Roundtable on “EU Foreign Policy after Lisbon” Daniela Sicurelli, University of Trento

Views of the EU I STAGE: -EU effective as an institutional model II STAGE: -EU contribution welcome when provides support to AU security operations. But: AU contested the EU interpretation of the R2P CFSP: AU presented EU sanctions as detrimental of local ownership. EU support of ICC: “evokes memories of colonialism”. The EU is viewed as internally divided, inconsistent, lacking incisivity.

Views of China AU expressed criticism for Chinese positions on human rights. But: Supported Chinese intervention as based on shared interests -“Greatly” valued “China's principled stance that the conflict in Darfur can only be resolved politically through dialogue and consultation”; -Welcomed aid “without any conditions” and “political support in international forums” -Viewed Chinese policies as respectful of local ownership and effective. Ambiguous positions South Africa and Nigeria, but concerned about preserving Chinese friendship.

China as a model for the EU? - “China contributed a lot to getting the hybrid operation instigated in Sudan. They have one of the most sophisticated influences over Sudan and the AU values them”. “The AU has, thanks to the EU, all the technical aspects for the early warning system in place but it does not have analysts who can make use of the information” (AU spokeperson in Darfur 2010). - EU should adopt the approach of China based on diplomacy and dialogue (AU representation in NY).

Conclusion EU viewed as a normative power? I stage: EU viewed as socializer to liberal norms, and able to push forwards norms considered legitimate. II stage: CFSP welcome when instrumental. Still, EU approach to conflict management as an imposition. Role of China: The Chinese model proved instrumental for AU leaders, more resonant with local practices and respectful of local ownership. It represents a challenge to the legitimacy of the EU as a model.