English | Français | Português
Photo: Africa Center
The Senegalese Alumni Chapter of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies (ASCESA) hosted a symposium in Dakar on November 5-6, focusing on the theme “Democracy Tested by Emerging Security Challenges in West Africa and the Sahel.” Over 80 participants attended, including government officials, senior military officers, researchers, civil society leaders, and diplomats from both Senegal and the United States.
Organized in collaboration with Senegal’s Ministry of Armed Forces, the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, the Senegalese Armed Forces General Staff, and the Institute of Defense of Senegal, the symposium addressed pressing issues regarding democracy and security in the region. Key discussions centered on how to balance security and democratic governance amid rising instability, protect citizens’ rights without undermining freedoms, and create strategic policy recommendations for states facing insecurity.
Keynote speakers, including Senegalese Minister of Armed Forces and Africa Center Alumni, General Birame Diop, emphasized the region’s dedication to democracy and the vital role of peace and security in its sustainability. The speakers also examined the impact of Sahelian states withdrawing from ECOWAS and proposed diplomatic and economic solutions for regional stability.
The discussions underscored the intertwined nature of democracy and security. Participants advocated reforms to ECOWAS, enhanced regional cooperation, and more inclusive governance. The event closed with a call for visionary leadership and unity to address transnational threats and uphold democratic principles. Collaboration, accountability, and collective action were identified as essential for ensuring lasting peace and stability in West Africa.
The symposium concluded with recommendations for promoting inclusive democracy, enhancing regional cooperation, and reforming ECOWAS to reflect the people’s aspirations better. Experts urged improvements in governance, greater military accountability, and a stronger focus on youth education and involvement in policymaking to build a stable and united West Africa.