What's happened
Benin has naturalised singer Ciara and actor Jonathan Majors as citizens, linking this move to its remembrance and cultural diplomacy efforts. The country aims to turn its history of the slave trade into a tool for influence, with high-profile figures supporting its narrative of recognition and cultural revival.
What's behind the headline?
Benin’s citizenship policy is a strategic use of cultural diplomacy, transforming remembrance of the slave trade into a soft power asset. By naturalising high-profile diaspora figures, the country amplifies its narrative of recognition and historical justice. This approach also seeks to position Benin as a cultural hub, leveraging celebrity influence to attract tourism and international attention. The move underscores a broader trend among African nations to reconnect with their diaspora, but it also raises questions about the political motives behind such symbolic gestures, especially given Guinea’s recent military-led government and its own citizenship initiatives. Ultimately, Benin’s strategy will likely succeed in elevating its cultural profile, but its long-term impact on diaspora relations remains uncertain.
What the papers say
All Africa highlights Benin’s legal framework and cultural initiatives, emphasizing the symbolic importance of figures like Ciara and Majors. Reuters notes the high volume of applications and the symbolic role of celebrity naturalisations, while AP News provides context on Guinea’s similar efforts and recent political developments. The contrasting coverage underscores how these citizenship moves serve both diplomatic and political purposes, with some viewing them as genuine acts of remembrance and others as strategic soft power maneuvers.
How we got here
Benin established a legal mechanism in 2025 to naturalise descendants of enslaved Africans, aiming to reconnect with the African diaspora and promote cultural tourism. The policy is part of a broader strategy to reframe historical heritage, especially through events like Vodun Days in Ouidah, which highlight spiritual and historical ties to the slave trade. International figures like Ciara and Majors have been granted citizenship to boost this diplomatic effort.
Go deeper
- What is the long-term impact of celebrity naturalisations?
- How do these policies influence regional diplomacy?
- Will other countries follow Benin’s example?
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