The IRIS video, dated September 3, 2024, presents an exchange between Pascal Boniface and Caroline Roussy, Research Director and Head of the Africa/s Program, on the security and political situation in the Sahel, particularly in Burkina Faso, following the attack of August 24, 2024, one of the deadliest in the country's history. They discuss the worsening security crisis in the region, marked by a resurgence of terrorist attacks and growing political instability. The video also addresses the challenges faced by local governments and international forces in their fight against terrorism, as well as the implications for the civilian population. The speakers emphasize the importance of an integrated approach, combining military efforts, economic development and strengthening governance, to sustainably stabilize the region. They emphasize the need for increased cooperation between the Sahel states and the international community to address this multidimensional crisis.

Governance, Security, Jihad, Violence

Pascal Boniface's video "West Africa: Guns vs. the Ballot Box" examines recent military coups in West Africa, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. These events highlight a democratic crisis fueled by the inability of civilian governments to address security and socio-economic challenges, compounded by jihadist threats. In this context, some populations support military interventions as an alternative to weak democratic institutions. The author also discusses the reactions of the international community, including ECOWAS, the UN, and the European Union, which condemn these coups while questioning the future of French engagement in the Sahel and the growing influence of new actors such as Russia in the region.

Election, Violence

The security crisis in West Africa and the Sahel exacerbates the vulnerability of these regions to climate change. Conflicts hamper the governance of natural resources, which are essential for the global energy transition. Regional institutions, such as ECOWAS and the African Union, are weakened, compromising their ability to respond effectively to climate challenges. According to the IPCC, these areas are among the most vulnerable to future climate fluctuations. Demands for climate justice coincide with aspirations for social justice, particularly among African youth. Securing the management of strategic minerals is crucial for the industrialization and economic development of producer countries. It is imperative to integrate security considerations into international climate negotiations to ensure effective implementation of climate agendas in the Sahel and West Africa

Climate change, Environment, Natural ressources, Security, Vulnerability

The multiple crises in the Sahel – armed conflict, political instability and climate change – particularly characterize women and girls. They are exposed to sexual violence, forced marriage and exploitation. Insecurity has displaced millions of people, including 78% of women and children in 2021, disrupting their access to education and essential services, and reinforcing traditional roles that limit their opportunities. In Mali, crises are exacerbating conservative social realities. Sexual violence, forced marriage, and female genital mutilation are commonplace, causing deep trauma. Access to health care, including maternal and reproductive health services, is limited. In 2022, 1,726 schools were closed, depriving 517,800 children of school, with girls particularly affected. Rural women, who are responsible for food security, are directly impacted by the impacts of climate change on their daily lives.Recommendations include gender-sensitive responses, improving women’s access to education and economic resources to strengthen their resilience. Supporting their active participation in crisis resolution and community well-being efforts is essential. Despite challenges, women demonstrate remarkable resilience, which is essential for a safer and more prosperous future.Recommendations include gender-sensitive responses, improving women’s access to education and economic resources to strengthen their resilience. Supporting their active participation in crisis resolution and community well-being efforts is essential. Despite challenges, women demonstrate remarkable resilience, which is essential for a safer and more prosperous future.

Education, Women, Vulnerability, Discrimination, Crisis

The May 2023 article by the Institute of International and Strategic Relations (IRIS) analyzes the establishment of terrorist groups in northern Ghana. It highlights that the proximity to unstable areas, particularly in Burkina Faso, and the porosity of the borders facilitate the infiltration of these groups. Community conflicts, governance problems, high youth unemployment and illegal activities such as gold mining increase the vulnerability of the region. Terrorist groups exploit these weaknesses to recruit and establish logistical bases. The Ghanaian government has responded by strengthening the military presence, involving local communities and cooperating at the regional level to counter this threat.

Jihad, Military activity, Threat

The article “Knowledge is Power: Youth-led research to address power dynamics in knowledge and advocacy processes to end child marriage and promote girls’ education in West Africa” published in July 2024 by Girls Not Brides, highlighting the alarming prevalence of child marriage in West and Central Africa, where 39% of girls are married before the age of 18. Countries such as Niger (76%), Central African Republic (68%) and Chad (67%) are among the highest rates in the world. The project aims to strengthen the participation of young people, especially young women, in research and advocacy processes

Education, Women

The article looks back at the 2024 legislative elections in Senegal, marked by political tensions and an unprecedented parliamentary configuration. After the victory of Bassirou Diomaye Faye in the presidential election of March 2024, the objective is to secure a parliamentary majority to implement the promised reforms, particularly in terms of governance and the fight against corruption. The major issues include the consolidation of presidential power and the modernization of infrastructure. The election, with a mixed majority and proportional system, aims to renew the 165 seats in the National Assembly while breaking the political cohabitation inherited from the 2022 elections.

Power, Governance, Election, Réforme

The “2024-2027 Roadmap for Strengthening the Inclusion of Refugees in the National Health System in Mauritania” aims to fully integrate refugees into the Mauritanian health system. It is part of the country’s commitment to ensuring refugees’ access to health services, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and the National Health Development Plan 2021-2030. Key objectives include strengthening health infrastructure, improving the supply of essential medicines, and gradually integrating refugees into the national health insurance system.

Governance, Health, refugee

The article discusses military dominance in Mali in the context of the political transition. General Assimi Goïta recently dismissed Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga following growing tensions and public criticism of the military's management. Latent disagreements between the two leaders, masked by a fragile alliance, have finally erupted. The military, although having integrated civilian figures into the government, controls all decisions. This dismissal reflects the armed forces' control over the transition and highlights the absence of real countervailing powers.

Governance, Military activity, Transition