Abstract
Africa is struggling with poverty, poor governance and lack of democratic values. With the “Africa Strategy” the Danish government demonstrates a prioritized effort in solving Africa’s growing problems. To implement the strategy a secure environment in Africa is essential, thus the military capacity building will give the Danish Armed Forces a vital role, in order for Denmark to achieve its aim.
Since the end of The Cold War Denmark has been a part of several international armed conflicts, utilizing hard power as a consequence. With the new strategy for Africa the emphasis for the Armed Forces is put on military capacity building instead of hard power.
This thesis examines whether the strategy for Africa – in relation to the use of the Armed Forces, will change the Danish foreign and security policy
The analysis is based on three liberal characteristics; democracy, institutionalism and interdependence. The analysis covers two periods;
1. The use of the Armed Forces from the end of the Cold War until present-day.
2. The use of the Armed Forces in Africa in a future perspective.
The conclusion points towards a possible change in Danish foreign and security policy, due to a reduced American influence in future military operations.