This article analyzes the historical, political, and economic evolution of borders in the Saharo-Sahelian region, shaped by colonization, Tuareg rebellions, border disputes, and illegal flows. Borders, often arbitrary and poorly controlled, have become sites of rents for local and international actors. In pre-colonial times, this region was a transit area without barriers. Colonization imposed rigid borders, disrupting local dynamics. Today, trafficking (drugs, weapons, migrants) thrives, making borders porous and uncontrollable. Jihadist movements also redefine borders through their advances and retreats. The author emphasizes that Saharo-Sahelian borders remain economic, political, and geostrategic tools while symbolizing regional instability.

Politics, Political party, State, Boundary, Natural ressources, Jihad, Terrorism, Education, Gold, Illegal activity

This article examines the intersection of jihadi governance and gender practices in the Sahel. It explores how jihadist groups, affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, manipulate gender relations to gain local support. By blending continuity and disruption with traditional social practices, these groups leverage gender roles in Fulani communities in the Liptako-Gourma region (Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso). Using ethnographic methodology and interviews, the authors analyze how jihadist governance adapts marriage norms, domestic roles, and dress codes. They conclude that the integration of these groups into the social fabric relies on their ability to reproduce or reshape existing gender practices.

Gender, Security, Conflict, Political Violence, Education, Human security, Violence, Threat, Soicial sciences, Knowlege production

The article entitled “What are the causes of the multidimensional crises affecting Mali and Burkina Faso?” », written by Jean-Marc Gravellini and published by the Institute of International and Strategic Relations (IRIS) on March 2, 2023, analyzes the origins of the complex crises affecting these two countries. The author identifies several contributing factors: Failures of economic policies: The economic strategies implemented have failed to improve the living conditions of populations, worsening poverty and unemployment. Socio-political crises: Growing discontent with the powers that be, perceived as corrupt and ineffective, has led to persistent political instability. Growing insecurity: The rise of armed groups and terrorist activities has worsened the security situation, making it difficult to maintain order and protect citizens. These interconnected elements have led to multidimensional crises, simultaneously affecting the economic, political and security spheres of Mali and Burkina Faso.

Governance, Insécurité, Instabilité

This article examines the severe crises affecting the Central Sahel countries (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger). It highlights the failures of public policies, increasing poverty, and rapid population growth. Ethnic conflicts, food insecurity, and climate change amplify tensions, with declining agricultural yields and escalating demographic pressures. The rise of jihadist movements and foreign interventions further undermine governance, leaving states increasingly fragile. Gravellini advocates for regional strategies to address these crises and promote universal values such as human rights. However, he predicts that a complete collapse of the Sahel is likely, threatening global stability.

Politics, Political party, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Education, Development, Gold, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production

This article examines the geopolitical dynamics of the Sahel and the Sahara, focusing on crises and resilience mechanisms. The author discusses conflicts such as the Libyan civil war, Mali’s fragmentation, and the rise of jihadists. The region is also shaped by the growth of trans-Saharan trafficking (drugs, weapons, migrants) and gold rushes. Sahelian states struggle to ensure stability due to weak institutions, exacerbated by international interventions. However, local populations demonstrate resilience by adapting to harsh environments, particularly through gold mining and informal trade. The article highlights the interplay between crises and adaptability, while questioning the effectiveness of international solutions.

Politics, Political party, Power, State, Natural ressources, Conflict, Jihad, Terrorism, Gold, Threat

This article examines the interplay of climate change, demography, and land use in the Sahel. Since the 1970s, recurrent rainfall deficits and a 500,000 km² reduction in arable land have intensified tensions between farmers and herders. Meanwhile, the population has tripled, rising from 40 million in 1970 to 135 million in 2020, and may reach 330 million by 2050. These imbalances have led to increasing instability. The author advocates for a “Green Revolution” tailored to the Sahel, emphasizing energy transitions, agricultural intensification, and demographic policies. In the short term, better irrigation techniques and more intensive livestock practices are critical to restoring sustainable balance.

Politics, Political party, Power, Agriculture, Climate change, Natural ressources, Justice, Gold, Violence, Threat

Drissa Millogo’s study analyzes the deadlocks in Mali’s peace process, which are linked to poor governance, intercommunal tensions, domestic jihadism, and foreign interference (France, Russia, Gulf monarchies). It calls for a complete rethinking of security approaches, grounded in popular sovereignty, horizontal cooperation, and stronger civil society engagement. Niger is portrayed as a fragile state threatened by jihadist infiltration from Nigeria and the tri-border area; President Issoufou advocates for a firm policy with international backing. Burkina Faso is highlighted for its regional diplomacy under President Compaoré but is also viewed with suspicion due to alleged ties with armed groups. The study promotes inclusive local governance and sincere regional cooperation as essential foundations for peace.

Governance, Peace, Conflict, Crisis management, Jihad, Civil Society, Groupes armés

The article titled "Confederation of the Sahel: Risks and Challenges of a New Alliance", written by Christian Bouquet and published on July 15, 2024, in The Conversation, examines the transformation of the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS) — comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger — into a confederation of states. This shift follows their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The author highlights the significant economic implications of this decision, notably the end of free trade agreements with other ECOWAS members, thereby restricting the free movement of goods, capital, and people to only ASS countries and members of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). A major challenge identified is the geographical landlocked nature of these countries, lacking direct access to the sea, complicating their exports and imports. Additionally, the monetary issue arises, as these nations still use the CFA franc and remain dependent on UEMOA and the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO). The creation of their own currency is considered, but its implementation appears complex and lengthy.

Governance, Cooperation

In July 2024, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger left the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to form the former Confederation of the Sahel. This decision comes against a backdrop of demographic and climatic crises, as well as insecurity linked to jihadism. Since the 1970s, reduced harvesting has reduced arable land, while the population has quintupled, exacerbating conflicts over resources. Foreign military interventions, deemed ineffective, led to military coups in these countries between 2020 and 2023. The new Junes fueled anti-French sentiment and moved closer to Russia. Faced with ECOWAS sanctions, these states proclaimed the Alliance of Sahel States in September 2023, evolving into the Sahel Confederation in July 2024. This secession exposes them to the challenges of enclavement and the management of vast territories that are difficult to control.

Governance, Coopération régionale