Between Friends

Community twinning gained traction after World War II as national governments in Europe sought to promote goodwill and cooperation among communities torn apart by conflict. In recent decades, twinning has become an increasingly global practice, extending beyond Europe, municipal relations and peacebuilding agendas.

While some twinning relationships are driven by business and investment opportunities, others are shaped by affective intensity, moral compulsion and political zeal. Between Friends examines these neglected forms of twinning that seek to intervene in and reshape global political affairs.

Through case studies including solidarity with the Nicaraguan Revolution, witnessing in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and rethinking ‘development’ in The Gambia, the book recasts ‘international friendship’ as a site of affective connection, political action and resistance, showing how emotional and multi-scalar ties can fuel forms of global solidarity.