This study presents an analytical mapping of research and knowledge production from 2012 to 2022 across six Sahelian countries. Based on 756 analyzed documents, it highlights dominant themes (security, governance, conflict mediation) and significant gaps (health, climate, youth, urban studies). It notes the overrepresentation of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, and the underrepresentation of Chad, Mauritania, and Senegal. Interviews with Alliance Sahel members reveal a lack of coherent documentation strategy. The report recommends strengthening the PASAS platform through targeted monitoring, hyperlinking sources instead of requesting publication rights, and expanding thematic categories to enhance visibility and strategic value. It calls for closer collaboration between PASAS, FCDO, and USAID repositories.

Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production

In “The silent threat: Kidnappings in Burkina Faso”, Flore Berger, a senior analyst at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, outlines the evolution of the kidnapping industry in Burkina Faso. Since 2017, 97% of kidnappings have targeted Burkinabé nationals rather than foreigners . Kidnapping incidents rose dramatically—from single digits in 2017 to over 260 in 2021—becoming a tool of war and social control used to intimidate, punish, and recruit, rather than primarily for ransom . The report is based on 35 field interviews across Burkina Faso and Mali. It illustrates how kidnappings targeting local officials and civilians undermine community cohesion and strengthen armed groups. The article calls for urgent recognition of this silent threat to integrate it into security responses and stabilization strategies across the region.

Security, Human Rights, Violence, Threat