In this CTPSR Webinar, Dr Festus Kofi Aubyn explored issues of violent extremism in “Understanding the Drivers and Dynamics of Violent Extremism in West Africa Coastal States".

The rise of violent extremism in West Africa's coastal states has been a subject of intense debate among scholars, policymakers, and security practitioners. While some argue that the threat of violent extremism in these states is exaggerated, others contend that it is a reality that requires urgent attention particularly due to the spill-over effects of the threat in the Sahel region. As part of the broader academic discourse on the threat, this presentation is aimed at contributing to an enhanced understanding of the drivers and dynamics of violent extremism in West Africa coastal states.

The presentation specifically unpacked the shared and varied factors that contribute to the emergence and growth of violent extremism in the coastal states, including political, economic, social, and cultural factors. Additionally, it explored the plausible reasons behind the observed absence of violent extremist attacks in Ghana despite recorded attacks in the other coastal countries of Togo, Benin, and Cote d’Ivoire and the lessons that can be drawn from that experience. Lastly, the presentation highlighted the impact of PCVE (preventing and countering violent extremism) measures on the prevalence of violent extremism in the region and conclude with some actionable recommendations to address the issue.

свернуть