The document explores the issues surrounding digital sovereignty in West Africa in 2024, examining both the challenges and prospects for achieving digital autonomy. Faced with rising cyber threats, West African countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal must strengthen their cybersecurity and manage their dependence on foreign infrastructure, particularly from China and Russia. The text analyzes the risks of losing control over data and increased vulnerability to cyberattacks, while also highlighting ongoing digital sovereignty initiatives. These initiatives include developing local infrastructure and implementing policies to protect data; however, they encounter significant obstacles such as a lack of expertise, low investment, and reliance on imported technologies.

Sovereignty, Governance, Information, Numérique, Donnée

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