Stabilising borders in Africa

In the 1960s, African states achieved political independence following a period of colonisation that lasted some fifty years. This colonisation, which marked the birth of the modern state on the continent, left behind a legacy of a new territorial configuration characterised by a degree of ambiguity and uncertainty regarding state borders. Recognising the risks of conflict that the lack of precision in borders could generate, the new states established a number of principles designed to stabilise them. The most emblematic of these principles is the principle of the inviolability of borders. However, despite the existence of these standards, Africa is characterised by significant instability along its borders due to a lack of delimitation and demarcation, as evidenced by the recurring border disputes which pose a threat to the continent's peace, security and development. It is therefore necessary to consider new strategies to achieve a definitive stabilisation of borders, since, ultimately, Africa's future depends on it.