The article analyzes the challenges of inclusive dialogue in Mali in a context marked by persistent conflicts. Following the failure of previous peace agreements, the Malian authorities are trying to regain control of the process by initiating a national dialogue without international mediation. However, this approach is addressed for its lack of inclusiveness, in particular the absence of dialogue with the main actors of the violence, including terrorist groups such as the GSIM. Previous agreements, mediated by international actors, have failed due to a lack of will on the part of the parties. Challenges therefore include the absence of key actors, the military predominance in pacification strategies and the withdrawal of groups such as the CMA, thus complicating the effectiveness of this dialogue.

Peace, Conflict, Crisis management, Terrorism, Dialogue

The article “EndSARS in Nigeria and its Lessons for Security Sector Reform in West Africa” analyzes the #EndSARS protest movement, initiated in 2017 on Twitter, which gained momentum in October 2020. This movement, mainly led by young people, denounces police violence perpetrated by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit created to fight serious crime but accused of serious abuses. The protests led to the announcement of the dissolution of SARS by the Nigerian government. The article highlights that this mobilization offers valuable lessons for security sector reform in West Africa, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and government accountability in protecting human rights.

Governance, Security, Public Administration, Military activity, Security Management, Threat, Illegal activity

The report “Dogmatism or Pragmatism? Violent Extremism and Gender in the Central Sahel” examines the influence of gender roles on the engagement of men and women in violent extremism in the Central Sahel. It highlights that violent extremist groups impose strict norms on women, seeking to control their behavior according to jihadist ideology. Contrary to the received idea of ​​women as passive victims, the report reveals that some actively support these groups, finding in the application of Sharia law and jihadist governance a resonance with their aspirations. Based on empirical data collected in late 2019 in the Liptako-Gourma region, the document offers an in-depth analysis of gender dynamics in the context of violent extremism in the Sahel.

Gender, Security, Jihad, Extremism, Women, 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

This article analyses the Sahel crisis through the prism of young people, with reference to the case of Burkina Faso. In particular, it looks at the ways in which young people are involved in shaping and implementing security policies. The aim is to elucidate why, despite their political weight, young people are not yet strategic actors in the governance of this sovereign sector. Based on actor-centred institutionalism, the article highlights the influence of contexts and institutions on their participation strategies in the fight against insecurity. The results show that while government mechanisms for the inclusion of young people produce precarious effects, the alternative strategies promoted by the latter end in deadlock.

Security, Youth, Politique publique

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

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 International Crisis Group's article "Cameroon: Confronting Boko Haram" analyses the impact of the Boko Haram insurgency in the Far North region of Cameroon. It highlights the vulnerability of this region due to weak socio-economic indicators and a limited state presence, facilitating the establishment of the terrorist group. Boko Haram has exploited these weaknesses to recruit locally and finance its activities through kidnappings, cattle rustling and illegal trade. The consequences are multiple: political destabilisation, increased insecurity, local economic collapse and social tensions. The article criticises the mainly security-based response of the Cameroonian government, deemed insufficient without a socio-economic development strategy. It recommends an integrated approach combining reinforced security, development initiatives and regional cooperation to eradicate the Boko Haram threat and sustainably stabilise the Far North of Cameroon.

Governance, Security, Jihad

West Africa is facing an increasing threat of destabilization due to the expansion of jihadist groups and the geopolitical influence of foreign powers, notably Russia. Recent attacks, such as the one in Togo in July 2024 by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM), affiliated with Al-Qaeda, highlight the extent of the terrorist threat in the region. Simultaneously, Russia is expanding its influence in Africa, capitalizing on the withdrawal or inaction of Western powers. This strategy is evident through alliances with military regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have recently formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a pro-Russian coalition. This situation weakens the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), already shaken by the intentions of some members to withdraw. In response to these challenges, West African authorities are seeking solutions to maintain regional stability and counter foreign interference.

Governance, Jihad, Influence, Violence, Threat