The International Crisis Group’s “Containing the Jihadist Insurgency in West Africa’s W Park” examines the growing influence of jihadist groups in W Park, a cross-border nature reserve between Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These groups are exploiting local tensions over access to natural resources and intercommunal conflicts to strengthen their presence. The article emphasizes that purely military strategies are insufficient to counter this threat. It advocates an integrated approach combining security, socio-economic development, and dialogue with local communities to restore peace and protect the park’s biodiversity.

Natural ressources, Security, Conflict, Jihad, Threat

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

This report examines perceptions of security in Mali's Mopti, Timbuktu, Gao, and Bandiagara regions as part of the Just Future program. National and local perceptions vary greatly, influenced by factors such as the presence of security actors, the withdrawal of MINUSMA, and socio-economic conditions. Security improvements are noted in regions like Timbuktu, attributed to military patrols and enhanced mobility. However, insecurity persists in other areas, driven by armed groups, forced displacements, and attacks. Perceptions of security forces are mixed: while their presence instills some confidence, their behavior is criticized. Economic concerns, characterized by increasing poverty and limited opportunities, remain a critical issue. Recommendations highlight the need for greater collaboration between security forces and civil society.

Governance, Natural ressources, Security, Justice, Education, Gold, Human security, Opinion, Threat, Researh, Knowlege production

The document presents an updated analysis of the situation in Eastern Chad, marked by humanitarian, security, and political challenges exacerbated since the recent presidential elections. The region, bordering Sudan, faces massive inflows of Sudanese refugees and internally displaced Chadians, increasing pressure on limited local resources. These crises are compounded by chronic instability due to intercommunal violence, armed incursions, and harsh climatic conditions, compromising food security and access. Weak governance and corruption hinder effective aid management, which remains insufficient to meet the growing needs of displaced populations. Land tensions add to the conflicts, opposing natives and newcomers, and the situation is further complicated by the absence of state services, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of resources.

Politics, Political party, State, Natural ressources, Security, Conflict, Human security, Violence, Threat

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

The document addresses the military presence in Mali and Niger, highlighting the return of military juntas to power since 2020. It analyzes the causes of the coups and the historical influence of the military on politics in these two countries, which has been exacerbated by the heightened insecurity caused by jihadist groups. The military regimes, seeking to assert their sovereignty and legitimize.

Power, State, Security, Justice, Political Violence, Education, Human security, Threat, Soicial sciences, Knowlege production