The article analyzes the pressures and challenges facing Côte d’Ivoire’s security sector in the post-conflict period, tracing the transition from state withdrawal toward renewed state control over security. It points out that while the “return of the State” was prioritized, the Security Sector Reform (SSR) reflects a significant gap between formal policies and real practices, since power dynamics continue to shape outcomes. The 2017 mutinies (in January and May) served as a catalyst for accelerated reforms, but questions remain about their sustainability. The army continues to be affected by extractive practices, militaro-economic networks, and insubordination, particularly among integrated ex-rebels. The article argues for viewing reforms politically rather than purely technically, stressing the need to build trust with communities, strengthen civil oversight, and responsibly integrate former combatants into institutional frameworks.

Governance, Security, Institution, Réforme, Groupes armés

This podcast episode highlights the critical role of think tanks, research centers, and universities as foundational institutions for producing and disseminating credible knowledge amid a world of confusion, polarization, and crises of meaning. These institutions are portrayed as essential in providing factual data, crafting alternative scenarios, mediating between scholarship and public policy, and strengthening democratic debate. At a 10-year anniversary conference in Dakar, speaker Cheikh Gueye showcased how think tanks like IPAR in Senegal have impacted public policies—such as agricultural subsidy reform—through rigorous analysis. The discussion also covered the relationship between academia, research institutions, and decision-makers, as well as the importance of women in knowledge-production spaces. The episode emphasizes that in times of leadership crisis globally, research and enlightened reasoning are more indispensable than ever.

Governance, Knowlege production, Institution, Scientific research

This article analyzes the psychological, social, and cultural determinants that underpin the normalization and institutionalization of corruption in Côte d’Ivoire. It argues that corruption is not merely the consequence of institutional weaknesses, but is sustained by cultural logics: a redistribution logic of acquired wealth, which motivates influential actors to share benefits with their kin; a logic of lucrative positions, where public offices are viewed as profit-making opportunities; and social learning of corruption, whereby individuals mimic corrupt behaviors observed among superiors. The paper also discusses the notion of imitative resourcefulness, in which people replicate corruption practices perceived as normal in the system. Based on qualitative interviews with civil servants, the study reveals that for many, corruption has become a routine part of state functioning.

Bribery, Governance, Social, Institution

The article “Cameroon: Calming Water-Related Struggles in the Far North” (International Crisis Group, April 2024) examines how climate change, recurrent droughts, and demographic pressure intensify tensions among communities (herders, fishermen, farmers) in Cameroon’s Far North region. In 2021, several deadly clashes occurred over contested water access points. The report calls for stronger local water governance mechanisms, promotion of co-management agreements, investment in water infrastructure, and improved intercommunity dialogue. It emphasizes the need for an inclusive approach that addresses climate vulnerabilities and social inequalities to prevent escalating violence.

Governance, Climate change, Security, Conflict, Terrorism, water

The article examines environmental degradation in Douala, Cameroon’s main industrial hub, where poor waste management, weak environmental policies, and ineffective decentralization exacerbate social and health risks. Industrial zones such as Logbaba and Bonassama discharge untreated waste and effluents without adequate control, while local councils, legally responsible for environmental oversight, are hindered by contradictory regulations. The study highlights the “failure of corporate social responsibility” and the lack of local ownership of environmental governance. It calls for genuine decentralization, better institutional coordination, and stronger accountability for industrial actors. The case of Douala demonstrates the urgent need for participatory environmental management and effective implementation of CSR principles to balance industrial development with urban sustainability.

Governance, Environment, Decentralization, Hygiène, Pollution

This report by ADEA, published by WATHI, reviews how twelve African countries ensured learning continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic. With schools closed, governments implemented emergency measures such as radio and TV lessons, and online platforms like Zoom, Google Classroom, and WhatsApp. Despite these efforts, challenges remained—limited infrastructure, unequal access, and insufficient inclusion of vulnerable learners. Some countries, including Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, and South Africa, developed specific initiatives to reduce educational disparities. The report highlights the importance of investing in distance education, fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, and building national expertise to ensure educational resilience during crises.

Governance, Inequality, Education, Politique publique, Santé publique, Inclusion

This WATHI podcast, produced in partnership with the Embassy of Ireland in Senegal, builds on UNESCO’s 2024 Global Report on Teachers and highlights the precarious working conditions faced by teachers in West Africa. Speakers emphasize that low pay, overcrowded classrooms, and lack of psychosocial support weaken the quality of education. Despite some positive reforms salary increases in Côte d’Ivoire, special status for teachers in Burkina Faso, and regularization of educators in Guinea major challenges persist. Experts call for stronger teacher training, transparent management systems, and greater professional recognition. The discussion concludes that investing in teachers’ well-being and professional value is essential for securing the future of education in the region.

Governance, Education, Politique publique

The 2023 Economic Report – Côte d’Ivoire, published by the Swiss Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire (June 2024), reveals that the Ivorian economy sustained strong growth despite global shocks (COVID-19, Russia-Ukraine crisis). In 2022, growth reached 6.9 %, followed by 6.5 % in 2023. Inflation fell to 4.4 % in 2023, and the budget deficit was reduced to 5.2 % of GDP. However, public debt stands at about 58 % of GDP, approaching the upper limit defined by UEMOA. The report highlights the challenges stemming from an informal economy, which accounts for around 90 % of GDP, and emphasizes the need for formalization to boost tax revenues. On trade, the growth of processed exports (cocoa, cashew, gold) is significant, while imports remain dominated by fuel, machinery, and industrial goods. The report recommends strengthening infrastructure, improving the business climate, digitizing the economy, and fighting corruption to support sustainable growth.

Governance, Economic Development, Public debt, Inflation, Economic growth

This Afrobarometer study by Joseph Koné examines the drivers of tax disobedience in Côte d’Ivoire amid strong post-crisis economic growth. Despite a 61 % rise in tax revenues between 2013 and 2019, public trust in the fiscal system remains weak. The findings reveal that neither poverty nor perceived corruption directly explain tax resistance. Instead, two unexpected factors emerge: perceived access to public information and stronger national identification both correlate with higher likelihood of disobedience, possibly as a form of civic protest. Ivorians who believe government services are effective are less likely to refuse taxes, while those who distrust their elected representatives are more inclined to resist. The study concludes that tax compliance depends largely on citizens’ trust, transparency in governance, and accountability mechanisms.

Governance, Poverty, Transparency, Taxation