The Sahel Conflict and its Underpinning Relevance to Africa- EU Relations

Over the years, conflict in the Sahel region of Africa has resulted in unparalleled humanitarian disasters. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are among the nations that make up this semi-arid region. What is discernible is that these nations are all dealing with political unrest. These countries suffer from a lack of democracy and stagnant political instability. How does democratic and political instability help us understand this conflict? The conflict has been ongoing since 2011. The Tuareg insurgents in northern Mali are reportedly responsible for this violence. It is a hub for armed Islamist organizations linked to the Islamic State (IS) and al Qaida. 

Nearly 2.7 million people are said to have been displaced, and over 920,000 are looking for asylum in neighboring nations, according to UNCHR. This has an impact on other nations but is most severe in countries like Mauritania and Chad. How does the Sahel issue impact relations between Europe and Africa in terms of migration, given the current migration crisis? The proximity of the area, or "backyard," makes it of strategic relevance to Europe. It is evident that the Sahel has served as a migration hub for people heading to Europe. This lecture will delve on EU's strategic goals and approach as it relates to collaborating with the African Union, sub-regional organizations, and the UN peacekeeping operation to establish peace, safeguard citizens, and control migration. 

Students at the University of Umeå studying peace and conflict will receive an online guest lecture from Dr. Jimmy Hendry Nzally. The instructor for this course is Prof. Patrik Johansson, a professor and researcher in peace and conflict studies at Umeå University who also serves as the program coordinator for international crisis and conflict management.

During this online guest lecture students from the BSOG course on Regional History of International Relations: Africa, will interact with students of University of Umeå. 
Please be advised that only physical presence is possible for those attending here at the VUB-BSOG. Click here to register for this event.

Venue: BSoG - VUB, Pleinlaan 5, Strasbourg