In view of the socio-economic dynamics of the African continent, I carry out in this article a critical analysis of the issues linked to youth employment. My approach is characterized by bold thinking, illustrated by the metaphor of “Emmanuel Macron’s knee placed on the neck of Africans”, symbolizing the challenges and external pressures that African states face and which cause public policies and initiatives to fail. Job creation for young people. My expertise therefore revolves around the search for innovative and sustainable solutions to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth and emancipation for African youth.
Indeed, enthusiastic about contemporary socio-economic issues, I have a particular interest in the problem of youth employment in Africa. My critical reflection focuses on the influence of international policies on the development of the continent, particularly questioning the role of Western actors. Through the aforementioned bold metaphor, I compare the impact of these policies to the pressure exerted by Emmanuel Macron’s knee on the necks of African populations, thus symbolizing the challenges they face. This article aims to spark constructive dialogue and encourage innovative solutions to overcome these unfortunate obstacles. It also focuses on the role that states, institutions and private structures can play, as well as the importance of individual initiatives in resolving this crucial issue. This is why, equipped with a strategic vision and an ability to analyze complex dynamics, I am committed to contributing effectively to the development of innovative and sustainable solutions to boost youth employment on the African continent.
My scientific approach is part of a dynamic and contemporary vision of the job market, particularly focused on the challenges of integrating young people. Because, I am convinced that the concept of employment must be considered in its entirety, encompassing any activity that creates value and generates income. This approach makes it possible to effectively contribute to the empowerment of individuals and communities, by providing them with the tools necessary to lead a decent and independent life. It is essential that actors in the African public space (State, civil society organizations and private sector) commit to transforming these challenges into tangible opportunities, by leveraging skills to promote successful and sustainable professional integration of youth. To do this, it would be appropriate to distinguish the different roles of the State in the economy. Whether as the main provider of jobs or as a strategic regulator, the State must strive to optimize governance and stimulate the creation of professional opportunities, both in the private sector and in the informal sector. This expertise approach is anchored in a pragmatic and innovative vision of employment, aligned with current labor market trends. Thus, it is necessary for African States to deepen research in the analysis and mobilization of key resources – human, financial and material – to stimulate development factors. This urgent need must extend to the control of essential macroeconomic indicators such as GDP, GNP, debt services and balance of payments, precisely to contribute to sustained economic growth thanks to a well-informed strategy and effective management of resources.
With strategic acuity of the dynamics of globalization and the demands of the international economic context, I am deeply aware of the importance of interstate partnerships which promote comparative advantages and promote areas of cooperation as well as the exchange of products and services. I also recognize the interdependence of global economies and the collaborative approach of BRICS, which differs from the West in offering infrastructure and technical, financial and material support in a mutually beneficial partnership perspective. This is why my critical perspective on Western practices highlights a certain condescension and the imposition of values under the guise of democracy, thus revealing the issues of Western-American influence. My approach is therefore centered on ethics, efficiency and respect for cultural and economic diversity, key elements for navigating and prospering in the current global economic landscape. Thus, with professional acuity sharpened by contemporary realities, African leaders must be fully aware that the welfare state model is now outdated. In a world where efficiency is king, no one is supposed to ignore the growing importance of the private sector and the dynamics of globalization, which are gradually erasing national and continental borders. My approach is therefore resolutely focused on innovation, adaptability and transnational strategy, essential skills to successfully navigate the current economic landscape open to Multipolarism.
However, with a pragmatic vision of governance, I am firmly convinced of the lasting importance of the State in the current context. Despite the emergence of supranational groups, it must be recognized that the primary and direct responsibility for the well-being of citizens inevitably falls to individual States. This in-depth understanding of modern political dynamics underlines my commitment to effective and accountable state management, ready to meet contemporary challenges while anticipating the future needs of society. It therefore appears crucial to deepen the understanding of employment policies and their implementation at state level. This approach would like to be anchored in the strategic analysis of political frameworks, making it possible to provide innovative and effective solutions to contemporary employment challenges. This analytical and prospective vision would like to actively contribute to the development of robust employment policies adapted to the current needs of Africa. As a knowledgeable professional, I am particularly sensitive to the dynamics of employment policies at the supranational level, particularly within the European Union, where member states play a crucial role although integrated into a broader framework. This global perspective allows us to develop a nuanced understanding of the interactions between different levels of governance. It is in this spirit that my critical analysis of political discourses, illustrated by the sometimes controversial approach of President Emmanuel Macron when he addresses the African continent, testifies to my ability to evaluate the issues of representation and intercultural communication. I am particularly attentive to the nuances of these exchanges, which must be handled with respect and fairness, avoiding any form of condescension or neocolonialism. Which means my expertise therefore extends to a keen cross-cultural sensitivity, essential to successfully navigating today’s complex and changing international landscape.
Furthermore, socio-economic dynamics and their impact on employment particularly invite us to be attentive to the challenges of economic development and the professional integration of young people in Africa. This is why, in this critical analysis, I emphasize the importance of the terms of trade in the capacity of African states to generate employment opportunities. Because I am aware of the challenges posed by globalization and the emergence of multipolarism, particularly with regard to the integration of African countries within influential economic blocs such as BRICS. This approach is marked by a nuanced understanding of international policies and development strategies, while remaining vigilant against external influences that can shape political decisions on the African continent. It is therefore necessary to deepen our understanding of the economic dynamics which reveal how economic dependence hinders the development of employment prospects in Africa, particularly for young people seeking their first professional experience. We should be particularly sensitive to historical and current issues that impact societies, such as endemic unemployment and forced migration, phenomena rooted in the aftermath of the Berlin conference. This period saw the beginning of the exploitation and expropriation of African resources by colonial powers, with repercussions that still persist today in public policies. It is from this perspective that my critical analysis of international relations, in particular the neo-imperialist posture of certain contemporary leaders, allows us to understand the obstacles to the happiness and autonomous development of African peoples, despite the immense potential of their continent. A perfect understanding of the economic and political issues makes it possible to recognize that the lack of creation of employment opportunities in developing countries is not the result of an isolated factor alone. Particularly noteworthy is the impact of poor governance, characterized by an inequitable distribution of resources exacerbated by the corruption of ruling elites. The latter, often indifferent to the collective interest, escape both internal and international pressure, which constitutes a major obstacle to the development of employment. This critical analysis, which describes the ability to identify strategic levers of action, is an asset to be used for projects aimed at improving governance and stimulating economic growth. Passionate about sustainable development and business ethics, I am firmly convinced that the fight against corruption is essential to promote good governance and strengthen democratic principles in Africa. It is in this spirit that my approach aligns with the initiatives supported by the African Union, civil society organizations and the BRICS alliance, aimed at establishing an authentic democracy, respectful of African values and cultures, rather than subscribing to systematic Westernization. The need is more than urgent for actors in the African public space to engage in the promotion of a universal civilization that values diversity and inclusiveness, thus contributing to the consolidation of a universal space truly representative of all companies.
Furthermore, passionate about the quest for universal well-being, I am convinced that the vitality of civil society organizations plays a key role in guiding government actions and mobilizing development partners. My approach is resolutely oriented towards multipolarism, reflecting a modern vision of international relations. This translates into a strong interest in dynamics such as the BRICS Alliance, which challenges the traditional world order and ushers in an era of geopolitical diversity. My expertise revolves around this transition to a multipolar global landscape, where collaboration and collective engagement are essential to shaping a balanced and inclusive future. This is why, passionate about developing the employability of young people in Africa, I am convinced that the challenges encountered in this area are mainly due to the historical interference of former colonial powers. This perspective leads me to value and support international cooperation initiatives free from colonial liabilities, such as those proposed by the Russian Federation and the BRICS Alliance. African states must firmly commit to promoting equitable and mutually beneficial partnerships, which in my view constitute the basis of lasting and fruitful collaboration, in line with the aspirations of the African people and, in particular, its dynamic youth. .
To close, enthusiastic about promoting an identity that embraces both the values of Multipolarism and Pan-Africanism, I am strictly committed to the path of progress and African solidarity. My objective is to actively contribute to the erosion of Françafrique, in favor of BRICS cooperation, fair and respectful. My career reflects this commitment, where cultural synergy and African unity are at the heart of my professional action.
Mohamed Lamine KABA – Expert in geopolitics of governance and regional integration, Institute of Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences, Pan-African University, especially for the online magazine “New Eastern Outlook”.
