The UN Security Council today discussed the challenges in West Africa and the Sahel region and the corresponding UNOWAS regional office. Switzerland is co-penholder in the Security Council on this issue. In this role, it contributed to the three-year extension of the UNOWAS mandate in January 2023.
Insecurity remains one of the greatest challenges for the region. The ongoing threat of terrorism and violent extremism hinders not only peace and stability but also socio-economic and humanitarian development. In its statement in the Security Council, Switzerland called for increased international support for regional initiatives. It emphasised the importance of dialogue and social cohesion, as well as addressing the root causes of terrorism. In Burkina Faso, for example, Switzerland supports projects that address the root causes of conflict in order to create a basis for long-term peace and stability.
In the Security Council, Switzerland also emphasised the importance of inclusive dialogue, political stability and good governance in the region. Despite challenges and setbacks in some countries, the region is also showing positive developments, such as successful elections and power transitions in Nigeria, Senegal and Ghana. The inclusion of marginalised groups, women and young people in political processes is key to this.
Furthermore, the consequences of climate change pose significant security risks in West Africa and the Sahel. Climate change can intensify existing challenges such as humanitarian crises and development deficits. Events such as floods, droughts and desertification increase instability and can fuel extremism. However, Switzerland also sees climate change as an impetus to promote regional cooperation and strengthen social cohesion and resilience. In this context, it highlighted workshops and dialogues supported by UNOWAS in the Security Council to better understand and respond to climate risks.
