Regional knowledge of Africa

Africa is changing rapidly, and developments on the continent have a direct impact on the Netherlands and Europe. Researchers at Leiden University connect expertise in African languages, cultures and societies with current issues such as migration, climate change, conflict and digitalisation.

Researchers study the continent from a range of perspectives, including history, languages and cultures, archaeology, anthropology, politics, law and economics. In doing so, they connect global issues such as migration, climate change, conflict, heritage and digitalisation with in-depth knowledge of local societies and historical developments. The strength of this approach lies in its interdisciplinary character and in Leiden’s long-standing collaborations with African researchers and academic institutions.

Through the African Studies Centre Leiden and the Leiden African Studies Assembly, Leiden University has a strong knowledge infrastructure in which researchers from different disciplines work together. This approach generates knowledge not only about Africa, but together with African partners. This expertise contributes to academic research, policymaking, international cooperation, and a deeper understanding of the relationship between Africa, the Netherlands and Europe.