The Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (SPECPOL) is one of the UN General Assembly’s key committees, and is responsible for overseeing ideals of decolonisation, peacekeeping and Peaceful use of outer space. As stewards of political stability, the agenda "Addressing the geo-political impacts of Chinese infrastructure projects in Africa" takes a position of fundamental importance and requires the committee’s immediate attention.

 

Through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the People’s Republic of China has significantly expanded its influence in Africa through large-scale infrastructure projects, including ports, railways, and energy facilities, truly cementing itself as a global player in infrastructure development. While these investments boost economic growth and connectivity, they also raise concerns over debt sustainability, sovereignty, and geopolitical leverage. Accusations of "debt-trap diplomacy" which undermine the  African nations' autonomy, are put on China,  while such a move is also often contrasted by increased infrastructure development and job creation.

 

This year, SPECPOL will be evaluating the geopolitical ramifications of Chinese projects, examining their impact on regional power dynamics, neo-colonialism accusations, and Western counter-initiatives, in order to ensure the alignment of the Chinese-led infrastructural projects with Africa’s long term stability and sovereignty, while addressing the strategic competition between China and the western powers.