North Africa

​
 
 
North Africa, forming the northernmost region of the African continent, is traditionally delineated by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Sahara Desert to the south. Comprising the modern states of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Mauritania, and Sudan, the region boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and landscapes.

Historically, North Africa has been a nexus of civilisation, serving as a crossroads between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Ancient empires, from the Pharaohs to the Carthaginians, left their indelible marks. Later, the region witnessed the rise and fall of the Roman and Byzantine Empires. By the 7th century, the Islamic conquests ushered in a new era, infusing the area with Islamic culture and leading to the Arabisation of its societies. Over subsequent centuries, North Africa was influenced by a series of dynasties, including the Berber Almoravids and Almohads, as well as Ottomans.

The 19th and 20th centuries saw European colonialism reshape the political and economic landscape, until decolonisation movements in the mid-20th century established the modern nation-states we recognize today. In more recent times, North Africa has experienced seismic political change, most notably during the Arab Spring, which began in Tunisia in 2010, quickly spreading across the region and beyond, and leading to significant political and social change. 

North Africa remains strategically important in geo-political terms, with its vast energy resources, particularly in Algeria and Libya, and its key position as a bridge between Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. The region’s interwoven histories, cultures, and evolving political landscapes make it a dynamic and vital area in contemporary international relations.