Neo-colonialism and leaving fossil fuels underground: a discourse analysis of the potential German-Senegalese gas partnership

This paper explores the contested discourses surrounding a potential gas partnership between Germany and Senegal, highlighting the implications of neo-colonialism in energy politics. It addresses a gap in the LFFU literature: its limited engagement with critiques that call the Global North's discouragement of fossil fuel use a form of neo-colonialism. Conversely, another critique views developed nations' support for fossil fuel projects in the Global South as neo-colonial exploitation. This study analyses these conflicting views through a post-structural discourse analysis focused on how neo-colonialism is invoked in the case study. We identify four distinct discourses: Energy Security, Climate Protection, Right to Development, and Don't Gas Africa. We examine how these discourses employ neocolonialism to support their positions and address the geopolitical and justice complexities of equitably leaving fossil fuels underground. The findings suggest that a nuanced understanding of neo-colonialism can bolster LFFU arguments, advocating for transformative, equitable, and sustainable energy partnerships. • Neo-colonialism serves conflicting roles in justifying or resisting fossil fuel projects. • A decolonial framing strengthens the case for Leaving Fossil Fuels Underground. • Global North hypocrisy undermines trust in equitable fossil fuel phaseout strategies. • ‘Don't Gas Africa’ discourse links neo-colonialism to climate justice and energy equity. • LFFU must prioritise decolonial struggles to redefine North-South energy partnerships