The article analyzes the security challenges facing coastal countries in the face of the terrorist threat, drawing lessons from the strategic mistakes of the Sahelian states. They favored a belated military approach, underestimating the transnational and hybrid nature of terrorism. The weakness of security governance, the outbreak of community conflicts and the use of self-defense groups have aggravated the situation. Terrorist groups exploit porous borders better than states. Burkina Faso is a strategic lock whose weakening increases the pressure on coastal countries such as Benin, Togo and Ghana. For these states, it is imperative to strengthen regional cooperation and adopt inclusive strategies to avoid the same pitfalls.

Security, Terrorism

The article "Beyond Criminality: Youth Perceptions of Radicalization and Violent Extremism in Northern Benin" examines how young people perceive radicalization and violent extremism in this region. It highlights the socio-economic and cultural factors that make youth vulnerable to these phenomena, such as unemployment, poverty, social exclusion, and lack of educational opportunities. The study also emphasizes the role of community and family dynamics in either preventing or facilitating radicalization. Young people often view violent extremism not only as a solution to their economic frustrations but also as a means to gain a sense of belonging and recognition. The article calls for a holistic approach, involving local communities, educational institutions, and government authorities, to develop effective prevention strategies. It stresses the need to strengthen civic education initiatives, promote interfaith dialogue, and create economic opportunities for youth to reduce their vulnerability to radicalization.

Security, Jihad, Violence

The Crisis Group article examines the expansion of jihadist groups from the Sahel to coastal countries in West Africa, notably Côte d’Ivoire, Benin and Togo. Taking advantage of security weaknesses and porous borders, these groups are extending their influence, threatening regional stability. The states concerned are struggling to coordinate an effective response to this growing threat. The article highlights the importance of strengthened regional cooperation and increased attention to local socio-economic factors to counter this jihadist advance.

Security, Jihad, Instabilité

The International Crisis Group’s “Containing the Jihadist Insurgency in West Africa’s W Park” examines the growing influence of jihadist groups in W Park, a cross-border nature reserve between Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These groups are exploiting local tensions over access to natural resources and intercommunal conflicts to strengthen their presence. The article emphasizes that purely military strategies are insufficient to counter this threat. It advocates an integrated approach combining security, socio-economic development, and dialogue with local communities to restore peace and protect the park’s biodiversity.

Natural ressources, Security, Conflict, Jihad, Threat

This policy brief examines the influx of Burkinabe refugees into coastal West African countries (Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin), fleeing both jihadist and state violence. Host countries implement varied reception strategies—refugee camps in Côte d’Ivoire, community-based or hybrid models elsewhere. Despite generally open policies, rising tensions stem from competition over local resources and perceptions of insecurity, especially toward Fulani pastoralist communities. Ghana notably conducted mass expulsions. The report advocates for flexible but structured policies, emphasizing local dialogue, systematic refugee registration, and equitable support to host communities. Maintaining an open-door policy is presented as crucial to prevent radicalization and preserve social cohesion in the face of prolonged displacement and regional instability.

Governance, Migration, Boundary, Conflict, Violence, refugee