Conflict over Resources and Terrorism
Two Facets of Insecurity
This study first analyses an old and recurring form of instability in the region: conflict over resources. A series of case studies examines the causes of these conflicts with reference to the associated regional challenges and response tools. Secondly, the study addresses terrorism, a relatively new dimension of insecurity. It outlines the development of AQMI and Boko Haram and then focuses on a comparative analysis of legal mechanisms to fight against terrorism. The argument holds that the congruence of these insecurities and the current violent crises present an unprecedented risk of destabilisation for West Africa and the international community.
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Agro-pastoral tensions
Sahel and West Africa Club
West Africa is a “zone of instability” in particular because of long-running tension between sedentary farmers and nomadic communities. These two groups have for a long time co-existed in a complementary way, sharing the same ecological niche and common pool resources. This relationship is now weakened by competition and conflict. This is a result of several factors, which include changing demographic, social, political, and environmental conditions. The tension threatens peace and regional security. The formal mechanisms of conflict resolution have thus far not succeeded. A number of factors (the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, poor regulatory mechanism for arms and ammunitions, upward trends in population density) will continue to heighten agro-pastoral tensions and other forms of conflict in the region and beyond.
Also available in: French
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