Conflict in the Sahel
Violent conflict in the Sahel, compounded by the impacts of climate change, has resulted in widespread displacement and food insecurity. Despite increased donorship to the Central Sahelian countries of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, barriers to humanitarian access have hindered implementing agencies’ ability to reach the most vulnerable. The fragmented security landscape, comprised of Sahelian state forces, international contingencies, and violent extremist organizations, further complicates the humanitarian response.
The Humanitarian Agenda, in coordination with the Africa Program, Cooperative Defense Project, Global Food Security Program, and Project on Prosperity and Development, launched a series analyzing the complex challenges that shape humanitarian considerations in the Sahel including political dynamics, food insecurity, migration, and U.S. security assistance.
Find the latest publications in this CSIS series below.
Security Fragmentation Hinders Humanitarian Response in the Sahel
November 17, 2020 | Kyle Murphy
The Sahel’s fragmented security environment underpins all issues faced by those in need of humanitarian support—and those trying to deliver it. Kyle Murphy outlines distinct challenges in Central Sahel and recommends steps toward smarter aid delivery.
Peril in the Desert: Irregular Migration through the Sahel
October 21, 2020 | Erol Yayboke, Rakan Aboneaaj
Recent efforts to address irregular migration through the Sahel have changed flows, not stopped them. As a result, migrants are at greater risk while the networks of illicit actors that move them grow stronger. A better approach that goes beyond hard security is needed.
Civilian Protection through Civilian Control: An Overlooked Piece of Security Sector Assistance in the Sahel
December 9, 2020 | Alice Hunt Friend
There is no capacity-building for civilian control commensurate with the emphasis on building military capabilities. Humanitarian goals in the Sahel could be achieved sustainably by adjusting security sector assistance to expand civilian capacity to control the military.
