West Africa
36 Articles
As Senate Considers New Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Human Rights Focus Would Strengthen US Policy
As government forces battle armed groups in Burkina Faso, civilians face daily abuses, even death, amid a range of violations of their security and their property. At least 6,201…
Amid Africa’s Spate of Coups, Improved Election Observation Will be Crucial to Transition
Whether observation missions in upcoming Sahel elections will help or hinder a return to civilian rule depends on a range of factors.
The Just Security Podcast: Counterterrorism and Human Rights (Part I Root Causes, Guantanamo, and Northeast Syria)
Perhaps no one is better equipped to consider the impact of counterterrorism on human rights than Fionnuala Ní Aoláin. This is Part 1 of a special two-part conversation.
Key Takeaways from September 28 House Foreign Affairs Committee Hearing on AUMF Reform
The HFAC hearing clarified the shallowness of the Biden administration’s conception of AUMF reform, divisions between the political branches and within the House, and the risks…
West Africa’s Grim Trajectory
The Niger coup is part of a cascade of crises that underscore democratic backsliding and the need for a broad regional strategy.
The Global Fragility Act Takes Another Step Toward Conflict Prevention, But Bigger Strides Remain
Conflict prevention routinely takes a back seat to immediate crises, and will require resources and attention to legal and bureaucratic gaps.
The Failing Response to Violent Extremism in Africa – and the Need to Reform the International Approach
Militant groups recruit where predatory governments alienate youth, exclude vulnerable groups, and rule with violent impunity.
The US Needs a Global Anti-Coup Strategy
With partners, Washington can affect the calculus of local players and set an example of standing with local pro-democracy actors.
Strengthening Democracy With the Global Fragility Act: Getting Political Transformation Right
US planning teams are preparing for a focus on Haiti, Libya, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, and the Littoral West Africa region.
With West Africa and Priority Countries Set, Potentially Game-Changing Global Fragility Act Still Faces Hurdles
Congress and the Biden administration still must move on funding and authorities to jump start the already delayed 10-year program.
Still at War: The United States in the Sahel
The Sahel may be the next battleground in the "war on terror."
Introduction to Symposium: Still at War – Where and Why the United States is Fighting the “War on Terror”
As the "war on terror" enters a third decade, it is time to reevaluate the aims and utility of relying on military force around the globe.