AbstractsPolitical Science

This project critically examines how the Danish government throughout 2013 has attempted to create a new discourse on Africa's economic growth in relation to the purpose of Danish development aid. Through a discourse analysis of relevant texts in Danish national media in the period 9.12.2012-9.12.2013, the project finds that the Government has attempted to instill development aid with a new priority; to increase Danish exports to Africa and spur job creation in Denmark. Surprisingly, this 'speech act' is not reflected in actual policy change by the Government. I therefore argue that the discourse is predominantly an example of 'symbolic politics' meant to satisfy national concerns regarding the financial crisis and job creation, rather than a sincere attempt to restructure African development aid.