The conflict has catalysed the region’s illicit markets as people turn to smuggling networks for essential goods.
But they have forced those involved in crime networks to lower their profiles and adapt their activities.
Security-focused border policies have led to growing unemployment, crime and migration in marginalised border communities.
Securing border areas is very different from other parts of a country and needs tailored security sector reform programming.
The general’s global supporters shouldn’t just focus on whether he can win, but what victory would mean.
Although the risk to the state is low, several changes in the persistent and bloody conflict warrant attention.
States must take responsibility for removing their nationals from conflicts raging in the Sahel.
Security sector reform should tackle causes of migration, including the popular view that governments are unresponsive and unfair.
Fewer people tried to migrate this year, but the factors driving young people to leave North Africa remain.
Foreign intervention has brought drones, cyber-attacks and social media propaganda that foreshadow the future of armed conflict.
Now is the time for real dialogue between the EU and the continent on security and migration.
The new European Union leadership must rethink approaches to migration from the Maghreb.
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