What does 'partnership' really mean in a changing world?

The Potsdam Africa Dialogues 2026 will put this question at the center of the conversation!

‘Partnership’ is one of the most frequently used terms in German policy towards Africa and is becoming even more indispensable in times of global upheaval. With the new South-North Commission on Development (ENSK) and the reform process of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) partnership is also taking centre stage in the debate on how Germany intends to help shape international cooperation in a changing world. The Potsdam Africa Dialogues 2026 discuss these timely topics: What does partnership mean in a changing world order? How are the German political reforms understood by partners? And what do German actors in politics and the economic sector need to change so that cooperation with African partners is based on shared interests, reliability and mutual benefit?

Over the past fifteen years, the Potsdam Africa Dialogues have become a trusted forum for exchange on regional cooperation and sustainable development. The conference brings together stakeholders from politics, business, academia, and civil society to discuss pressing challenges and innovative solutions. Everyone interested is warmly invited to attend the event.

Against the backdrop of the ongoing reform of German development policy and a rapidly changing international landscape, the event will bring together perspectives from African governments, institutions, businesses, civil society and German policymakers.

Join us at the Potsdam Africa Dialogues 2026 for an open exchange on these questions with distinguished panelists!