The IRIS study, led by Caroline Roussy, examines the complexity of transboundary threats in the Sahel and West Africa, particularly the spread of terrorism in border areas between Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. It highlights that 80% of recorded violence in this region occurs within 100 kilometers of land borders. Borders, often seen as dividing lines, are actually zones of contact and interaction, facilitating the movement of armed groups and the spread of extremist ideologies. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding local dynamics and cross-border interactions to develop effective counter-terrorism strategies. It recommends an integrated approach that considers the socio-economic and cultural realities of border populations, and enhanced cooperation between the concerned states to secure these vulnerable areas.

Governance, Boundary, Security, Cooperation

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, Economic Development, Security, Conflict, Education, Development, Human security, Threat, Information, EMPLOYMENT

This document analyzes the resurgence of military coups in the central Sahel, notably in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, as well as the resulting democratic challenges. Since 2012, these countries have experienced several overthrows of power, often seen as responses to the security and institutional weaknesses of the incumbent governments. The military transitions that follow typically extend the suspension of democratic rights and cast uncertainty over a return to constitutional order. Analyses of these transitional periods highlight the limited efforts to restore democratic governance, with delayed elections and increasing restrictions on civil freedom and the media.

State, Security

This document analyzes the resurgence of military coups in the central Sahel, notably in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, as well as the resulting democratic challenges. Since 2012, these countries have experienced several overthrows of power, often seen as responses to the security and institutional weaknesses of the incumbent governments. The military transitions that follow typically extend the suspension of democratic rights and cast uncertainty over a return to constitutional order. Analyses of these transitional periods highlight the limited efforts to restore democratic governance, with delayed elections and increasing restrictions on civil freedom and the media."

State, Security

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