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 article “Strategies for resilience among young people in Burkina Faso: How do they resist the temptations of violence?” explores the mechanisms by which young Burkinabe avoid succumbing to violence, despite contexts of social exclusion and injustice. Based on a survey conducted in 2018 by the Institute for Governance and Development (IGD), in collaboration with the Catholic University of Bukavu and the Research and Information Group on Peace and Security (GRIP), the study highlights the coping strategies developed by these young people. These strategies include engagement in socio-cultural activities, using social networks to express their concerns, and participating in civic training aimed at strengthening their resilience capacities. The objective is to understand how these mechanisms can be supported and strengthened to prevent young people from engaging in violent acts.

Youth, Violence

The article analyzes the impacts of the withdrawal of international forces and aid in the Sahel, exacerbating an already severe security and humanitarian crisis. Extremist insurgents are proliferating, leading to mass displacement and a breakdown in essential services. Agriculture, the region’s economic mainstay, is being destabilized by climate change and restrictions by armed groups, deepening poverty and fueling local conflicts. Young people, without prospects, are becoming vulnerable to recruitment by dangerous armed groups or migrants. The article calls for local approaches to peacebuilding, integrating women and youth into natural resource management and conflict resolution, to strengthen community resilience.

Security, Peace, Conflict, Extremism, Poverty, Women

A preliminary study conducted by the Timbuktu Institute, in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, examines the role of women in preventing and combating violent extremism in Mali. Carried out in Bamako during November and December 2016, this research highlights that women are both major victims and potential key actors in this context. They suffer from abuses such as forced marriages, rapes, and abductions, while being at the forefront of detecting signs of radicalization within their families and communities. However, their involvement in conflict prevention and resolution processes remains limited. The study identifies socioeconomic factors (poverty, unemployment, illiteracy) and religious influences as drivers of radicalization. It recommends expanding research to other regions of Mali, strengthening the capacities of state and civil society actors, and increasing the involvement of religious leaders and women in promoting peace and combating violent extremism.

Peace, Conflict, Jihad, Extremism, Women, Violence

This study examines the role of religious actors in Senegal's electoral landscape, focusing on the interplay between religion and politics in a culturally diverse context. Religious leaders, influential figures in Senegal, serve multiple roles: mediators during crises, sources of electoral mobilization, and sometimes controversial actors in political and social spheres. The study highlights complex dynamics between tradition and modernity, with young people expressing mixed trust in religious leaders. It also underscores the growing importance of digital media in conveying religious and political messages and explores perceptions across coastal and border areas. With the 2024 presidential election approaching, the study offers insights into the sustainability of religious influence within an evolving sociopolitical environment.

Political Power, Religion, Influence

The report by the Tombouctou Institute, in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, examines the role of religious actors in the Senegalese electoral process. Historically, these figures have contributed to political stability, particularly during recent crises. However, their influence on current electoral choices is questioned, especially with the rise of social networks and the evolution of relations between religious leaders and young people. The study, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, reveals that while the Senegalese confer the peacemaking role of religious leaders, they are increasingly skeptical about their direct impact on electoral decisions. Young people, in particular, question the credibility of political instructions emanating from religious leaders, preferring neutral mediation promoting dialogue and transparency in the electoral process.

Youth, Mediation, Election, Réseaux sociaux

The International Crisis Group’s article “Reordering Sahel Stabilization Strategies” analyzes the limitations of current approaches to the growing insecurity in the Sahel region. It highlights that strategies focused on the security-development nexus, as well as state capacity building, are failing to stem the violence. The article calls for a revision of these strategies, with an emphasis on political dialogue, governance reform, and better coordination of military efforts with renewed political initiatives. It also calls for increased involvement of local actors and adaptation of interventions to the specific realities of each country concerned.

Politics, Dialogue, Réforme