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HSF side event at Munich Security Conference
Future of the Sahel

At the Munich Security Conference, we organised a very productive side event with high level decision makers and other experts. Jakkie Cilliers from our long-standing partner Institute ISS presented results and recommendations of his team’s comprehensive recent study, drafted in consultation with local experts.

Jakkie Cilliers presenting results of the study

Jakkie Cilliers presenting results of the study

HSF; HSF

"If there is no significant progress in the Sahel, by 2040, we expect 52 Million people living in poverty", Jakkie Cilliers said. The study contains a concise executive summary which also outlines practical policy recommendations for diverse fields. At the event in Munich, a brilliant panel gave insightful, measured input for a complex and challenging situation, with AU Commissioner Smaїl Chergui, UN Special Representative Mohamed Chambas and CEN-SAD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Sani Abani. 

Panel and participants

Panel and participants

HSF; HSF

A high level discussion followed with good and critical questions. MP Michael Gahler and Prof. Dr Perthes asked who are the change agents in the region, and with whom Europe and the UN can operationalize an integrated approach? “We cannot surrender to terrorist groups. An adaptation of the approach is needed. We have to equip, but also rethink the training of military forces“ says Smaїl Chergui, AU Commissioner for Peace and Security. 

HSF Chairperson Markus Ferber participating in the discussion

HSF Chairperson Markus Ferber participating in the discussion

HSF; HSF

The discussion documented the serious situation in the region, and the growing awareness of the need to jointly adapt strategies to the complex developments there. 

HSF Chairman Markus Ferber emphasised: “None of the many strategies in the G5 countries can work without an African owned approach. We have to listen to the voices on the ground to adapt our strategies“.

READ the full ISS report here - it also contains the a very short executive summary in point form, with recommendations:

https://issafrica.org/…/prospects-for-the-g5-sahel-countrie…

WATCH a short video on key results of the study which was shown at the Munich Security Conference as well:

https://issafrica.org/…/prospects-for-the-g5-sahel-countries

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