Russia and the EU in the Sahel: race for influence

Eleven coup attempts in four years, a rise in jihadist movements, and Putin bolstering his presence – the Sahel region is facing turbulent times. With relations with Europe deteriorating, what safety challenges do both the Sahel and Europe face?

Military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have brought an end to the long-standing influence of former colonizer France in the region. The most recent country to break ties with France is Chad, which has ordered Paris to end its military presence. As France withdraws, Russia is stepping in.

As a result, Europe feels its losing a key region essential for combating jihadism and controlling migration. Tonight, we will take a closer look at the safety challenges both the Sahel and Europe face. What lessons can be learned from Europe’s failed involvement? What are the interests and strategies of external actors in the Sahel? What are the humanitarian consequences? And, finally, what does the future hold for the region?

About the speakers
Bram Vermeulen is a journalist, documentarymaker and author. Since 2001 he has worked as a correspondent for Dutch daily NRC Handelsblad. First in South Africa, then in Turkey and then again in South Africa. He also made reports for the NOS. He previously made series for the VPRO such as Dwars door Africa (Across Africa). He also made the documentaries Handelaar in Oorlog (Trader at War) and Cape Town, Gang Town, Lockdown.

Daaf Borren is a writer and correspondent who, since 2017, has travelled all corners of Africa to cover topics ranging from coups d’états and protest movements to climate change and migration.  This March, Daaf Borren’s book Het continent van de toekomst. Jongeren over Afrika (The Continent of the Future: Youth on Africa) will be released. It describes the continent from the eyes of a new generation, challenging traditional Western narratives.