The Research and Action for Peace (REcAP) Network, comprising of SIPRI, the Danish Refugee Council and the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, convened a two-day regional conference in Accra, Ghana, on 5 and 6 December. The theme of the conference was ‘Unifying for Stability: Addressing Violent Extremism Amidst Political Uncertainties in West Africa and the Lake Chad Basin’.
The event brought experts on peacebuilding, conflict prevention and violent extremism, together with representatives from international, regional and national institutions, including the Accra Initiative, the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism, the Multinational Joint Task Force and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel. During the two days, participants were given space and opportunity to exchange innovative ideas and best practices to influence national and regional policy on violent extremism.
SIPRI’s Luc van de Goor, Director of Studies, opened the conference by reflecting on the progress made since the launch of the REcAP Network in Dakar, Senegal, earlier in the year. He stressed the importance of a holistic, evidence-based approach to understanding and addressing security challenges.
SIPRI Governing Board member Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas delivered the keynote address. The address provided an overview of the socio-political and security context in West Africa and the Lake Chad Basin.
About the Research and Action for Peace (REcAP) Network
The REcAP Network is an initiative funded by the European Union that seeks to establish a sustainable, more inclusive and effective regional network of experts specialized in peacebuilding, the prevention of conflicts and violent extremism in West Africa and the Lake Chad Basin.
Click here to read more about the REcAP Network.
About the SIPRI Sahel and West Africa Programme
SIPRI’s work on the Sahel and West Africa analyses key conflict, security, governance and conflict prevention issues affecting the region. The research seeks to contribute to a better understanding of local perceptions and the needs and priorities of local populations to inform policymakers and practitioners.
Click here to read more about the SIPRI Sahel and West Africa Programme.