Conflict over Resources and Terrorism:
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Writen by OECD - Publisher OECD
- Year2013
This study examines two major sources of insecurity in West Africa: longstanding conflicts over natural resources and the emerging threat of terrorism. The first part analyses environmental and socio-economic drivers of resource-based conflicts, including land disputes and agro-pastoral tensions, using a series of case studies to highlight regional challenges and governance responses. The second part focuses on terrorism, with in-depth analysis of the crisis in northern Mali and the rise of Boko Haram, assessing the effectiveness of anti-terrorism mechanisms. The book is highly relevant to contemporary security discourse, as resource scarcity and extremist violence continue to threaten political stability, economic development, and regional cooperation. It offers policymakers, scholars, and security practitioners practical insights into integrated approaches for mitigating both traditional and modern security threats in West Africa.The book’s strengths include its dual focus on resource conflict and terrorism, providing a nuanced understanding of West Africa’s complex security landscape. Its case-study approach enhances practical applicability for policymakers and regional actors. Limitations include a primarily regional focus, which may reduce direct applicability to other global contexts, and a policy-oriented style that may not fully engage with theoretical debates. Nonetheless, it offers authoritative analysis grounded in empirical evidence and regional expertiseA highly relevant and practical contribution to West African security studies, particularly for understanding the interplay between environmental conflict and terrorism. Essential for repositories focused on regional security, terrorism, and conflict management.

