Panel to Parse Lessons From Africa's Independence Era

The free, public event titled "Senior Citizens Among the Nations: Reflections on the Rule of Law in Africa" will take place at 4 p.m. Monday (Nov. 10) in Room 2086 of the law school. A reception follows the discussion.

"The event commemorates the 65th anniversary of the Year of Africa," said Jade Craig, assistant professor of law. "That is when 17 countries – nearly a third of the nations on the continent – became independent in 1960."

The panel of experts includes Zachary Guthrie, Ole Miss associate professor of history; Laura Nyantung Beny, the Earl Warren DeLano Professor of Law at the University of Michigan; and Idriss Fofana, assistant professor of law and affiliate assistant professor of history at Harvard University.

The scholars will discuss the role law played in colonial and post-colonial Africa.

"They will also explore the challenges that many African nations face with pluralism and democracy, including the lessons learned from the experiences with authoritarianism and conflict," Craig said.

Gaining insight from the experiences of African nations with law and governance can lead to better understanding of global politics and democracy.

"At a time when the United States is struggling with division and many people are questioning the stability of our government and the rule of law, much can be learned from the experiences of other countries," Craig said.

Top: A panel of scholars will examine the challenges faced by African nations that all gained their independence in 1960 during a panel discussion at 4 p.m. Monday (Nov. 10) in the Khayat Law Center. The event, which is free and open to the public, will also offer insights into America's recent struggles with division. Adobe Stock photo