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West Africa and the Sahel: Better understanding for an adapted EU engagement

26 September 2024
Image of a landscape in the Sahel © Canva

On 26 September, we hosted a closed-door roundtable discussion in Paris bringing together independent experts and EU policymakers for an assessment of the situation in West Africa and the Sahel. Moderated by Rossella Marangio, the roundtable aimed at assessing the current understanding of dynamics in the region and exploring policy options for a renewed approach.

West Africa and the Sahel region are at a critical juncture, facing significant political and security challenges. In recent years, the region has experienced a rise in unconstitutional changes of government, coupled with an expanding security threat from terrorist organisations and organised crime. At the same time, there have been positive instances of democratic processes, such as the peaceful transfer of power in Senegal, highlighting resilience and a commitment to democratic governance. Several countries in the region approaching elections (Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal), Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) last January, and the creation of a confederation (the Alliance of Sahel States) raises significant questions about the future of regional cooperation.

Given these dynamics, it is crucial to reflect on these countries’ trajectories and the options for EU’s engagement in the region.