Sadaharu Kataoka is a Professor at Waseda University's Faculty of International Research and Education, School of International Liberal Studies. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Professor Kataoka specializes in African politics, international relations, and security studies, with particular expertise in Franco-African relations and the political dynamics of the Sahel region. Professor Kataoka's educational background reflects his deep engagement with international affairs and African studies: Doctorat en Sciences Politiques from Universite de Paris I (Pantheon-Sorbonne), completed between 1993-2000 Diplome des Etudes Approfondies en Sciences Politiques from Universite de Paris II Maitrise de Sciences Politiques from Universite de Paris II Diplome from L'Institut des hautes études de défense nationale (2005), focusing on Conflicts in Africa and Security Studies Undergraduate studies at Waseda University's Faculty of Political Economics Professor Kataoka's research focuses on critical areas of international relations with a particular emphasis on African politics. His work examines the complex interplay between security, development, and governance across the African continent. He has made significant contributions to understanding the evolving nature of European-African relations, particularly France's shifting policy toward its former colonies. His research also delves into the dynamics of regional security organizations, election processes in African democracies, and the impact of external powers including Russia's growing influence in Africa. His scholarship bridges theoretical frameworks with practical policy implications, often drawing on extensive fieldwork across multiple African countries. Professor Kataoka has developed particular expertise in the political economy of conflict, examining how resource distribution, historical legacies, and international interventions shape contemporary African politics. An analysis of Professor Kataoka's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on the evolving geopolitical landscape of Africa. His work increasingly addresses the multipolar competition for influence on the continent, with particular attention to how traditional powers like France are adapting to challenges from Russia, China, and other emerging actors. The thematic progression in his scholarship shows a deepening engagement with security challenges in the Sahel region, electoral politics across the continent, and the complex interplay between governance and development. Professor Kataoka has held numerous leadership positions in professional organizations, including serving on the administrative council of the Société franco-japonaise de sciences politiques since 2015 and as Director of the African Development Association since 2014. His professional memberships span multiple associations including the African Studies Association and the Japan Association of International Relations. His research has been supported by various grants including Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research, particularly for his work on governance in Sub-Saharan Africa. He has also conducted numerous commissioned studies for the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on topics ranging from NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa's Development) to African legislative support. Professor Kataoka maintains active engagement with policy communities through regular media appearances and participation in international forums. He frequently provides expert commentary on African affairs for major media outlets including NHK International Broadcasting and Radio France International.
