Spain´s Foreign Policy towards Sub-Saharian Africa seen through a Critical Assessment of the Africa Plans

Abstract

The Spanish increased attention to sub-Saharan Africa in recent years has been reflected in the successive development of action plans with different initiatives and objectives for the continent. We would highlight the development of the "Africa Plan 2006-2008" and the current "Africa Plan 2009- 2012". However, and in spite of the growing Spanish political agenda in Sub-Saharan Africa, it has not espoused a comprehensive approach to Africa nor has it provided an all levels dialogue. This dialogue at all levels would enable the Government to meet specific needs in order to more effectively align targets within specific sectors and would allow policies to be tailored to different regions or countries.