The Global Terrorism Index reveals that the Sahel is the new epicenter of global terrorism, with an alarming increase in deaths in the region as insurgent groups take hold.
Sahel Region Experiences Surge in Terrorism-Related Deaths
Sahel Region Experiences Surge in Terrorism-Related Deaths
The Sahel region now accounts for over half of global terrorism deaths, according to the latest Global Terrorism Index report.
The Sahel region, stretching across parts of 10 African countries, has become the "epicentre of global terrorism," now responsible for over half of worldwide terrorism-related deaths, as reported by the Global Terrorism Index (GTI). According to the latest data, 3,885 people in this semi-arid landscape lost their lives to terrorist violence, out of a global total of 7,555. While the overall global terrorism figures have declined since their peak in 2015, the Sahel has witnessed a nearly tenfold increase in deaths from terrorism since 2019, with extremist groups increasingly targeting this area.
The GTI, a product of the Institute for Economics and Peace’s analysis into global conflict and peace, defines terrorism as the use of unlawful force by non-state actors to achieve political, economic, religious, or social aims through intimidation. The Sahel, a region bounded by the Sahara Desert, encompasses parts of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and more, harboring some of the world's youngest populations, with nearly two-thirds under 25 years of age.
Unlike the West, which is seeing a rise in lone actor terrorism, the Sahel has seen a dramatic proliferation of militant jihadist organizations. The GTI report highlights that atrocities in this region stem predominantly from two groups: the Islamic State's affiliate and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), an al-Qaeda branch. Experts underscore these groups' aims to impose their interpretations of justice and Sharia law, escalating conflicts as they vie for territory and influence.
The IS-Sahel group has reportedly expanded its territorial control in Mali, especially after the recent military coups in 2020 and 2021, while JNIM continues its growth. Analysts have noted that many local individuals feel compelled to join these extremist factions due to a lack of options in a climate of instability and vulnerability.
Political disorder, characterized by years of neglect from political leaders towards the needs of local populations, has created a fertile ground for extremism to thrive. The GTI cites ongoing conflict as the key driver of terrorism, indicating that the Sahel is often referred to as Africa's "coup belt." Since 2020, six successful coups have unfolded in the area, leading to governance by military juntas struggling to improve a rapidly deteriorating security situation.
Burkina Faso leads the GTI in terrorism impact for the second consecutive year, not only as the most affected but also breaking records previously held by war-torn nations like Iraq and Afghanistan. Jihadist groups are funding their activities through diverse illicit enterprises, including ransom kidnappings and cattle theft, while also becoming entwined with local economies by imposing taxes for protection services.
Additionally, the Sahel serves as a significant route for drug traffickers moving cocaine from South America to Europe, adding another dimension to the nexus between crime and terrorism. Some groups prefer to integrate into communities by offering protection for a fee, thereby reinforcing their standing and influence.
In the wake of the coups, regional governments have shifted alliances away from Western nations, seeking assistance from countries like China and Russia. Reports indicate that Russia is increasing its involvement in the region through paramilitary groups designed to train local armies to combat the insurgencies, though efficacy has yet to be proven.
The GTI warns of the potential spread of terrorism beyond the Sahel, pointing to recent incursions in Togo, which reported its highest number of attacks and casualties since the index began tracking data. Analysts predict a creeping expansion of militant activities into neighboring regions, underscoring the urgency for concerted action to address the rising tide of terrorism in West Africa.
The GTI, a product of the Institute for Economics and Peace’s analysis into global conflict and peace, defines terrorism as the use of unlawful force by non-state actors to achieve political, economic, religious, or social aims through intimidation. The Sahel, a region bounded by the Sahara Desert, encompasses parts of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and more, harboring some of the world's youngest populations, with nearly two-thirds under 25 years of age.
Unlike the West, which is seeing a rise in lone actor terrorism, the Sahel has seen a dramatic proliferation of militant jihadist organizations. The GTI report highlights that atrocities in this region stem predominantly from two groups: the Islamic State's affiliate and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), an al-Qaeda branch. Experts underscore these groups' aims to impose their interpretations of justice and Sharia law, escalating conflicts as they vie for territory and influence.
The IS-Sahel group has reportedly expanded its territorial control in Mali, especially after the recent military coups in 2020 and 2021, while JNIM continues its growth. Analysts have noted that many local individuals feel compelled to join these extremist factions due to a lack of options in a climate of instability and vulnerability.
Political disorder, characterized by years of neglect from political leaders towards the needs of local populations, has created a fertile ground for extremism to thrive. The GTI cites ongoing conflict as the key driver of terrorism, indicating that the Sahel is often referred to as Africa's "coup belt." Since 2020, six successful coups have unfolded in the area, leading to governance by military juntas struggling to improve a rapidly deteriorating security situation.
Burkina Faso leads the GTI in terrorism impact for the second consecutive year, not only as the most affected but also breaking records previously held by war-torn nations like Iraq and Afghanistan. Jihadist groups are funding their activities through diverse illicit enterprises, including ransom kidnappings and cattle theft, while also becoming entwined with local economies by imposing taxes for protection services.
Additionally, the Sahel serves as a significant route for drug traffickers moving cocaine from South America to Europe, adding another dimension to the nexus between crime and terrorism. Some groups prefer to integrate into communities by offering protection for a fee, thereby reinforcing their standing and influence.
In the wake of the coups, regional governments have shifted alliances away from Western nations, seeking assistance from countries like China and Russia. Reports indicate that Russia is increasing its involvement in the region through paramilitary groups designed to train local armies to combat the insurgencies, though efficacy has yet to be proven.
The GTI warns of the potential spread of terrorism beyond the Sahel, pointing to recent incursions in Togo, which reported its highest number of attacks and casualties since the index began tracking data. Analysts predict a creeping expansion of militant activities into neighboring regions, underscoring the urgency for concerted action to address the rising tide of terrorism in West Africa.
