This study explores the development of artisanal gold mining in the G5 Sahel countries and Senegal from 2012 to 2023, examining links to insecurity, regulation, and socio-environmental dynamics. While some reports suggest jihadist groups might finance themselves through gold mining, the study finds no conclusive evidence. It calls for more research on armed groups, gold trade circuits, public health issues, environmental impacts, and child labor. The report emphasizes the lack of coherent regional regulations and the highly localized nature of existing studies. Through both thematic and country-level syntheses, it highlights the need for context-sensitive approaches to better grasp the complex interplay of actors, practices, and governance surrounding artisanal mining.

Environment, Natural ressources, Development, Gold

This article examines the surge in militant Islamist violence in the Sahel—especially Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—where attacks have risen by 140% since 2020. The author argues that traditional counterterrorism efforts are ineffective, as these groups function more like local insurgencies. A shift toward a counterinsurgency (COIN) strategy is recommended, centered on population protection, improved military mobility, civil-military cooperation, credible military justice, and robust logistics. The report emphasizes the need for mobile, modular, and integrated forces with air support and intelligence coordination. The author promotes a republican model of military conduct focused on legitimacy and community trust. Mauritania’s Special Intervention Groups (GSIs) and Cameroon’s Rapid Intervention Brigade (BIR) are cited as instructive models.

Security, Jihad, Terrorism, Counter terrorism