Stability of West Africa under threat from terrorism, humanitarian crises: UN deputy chief

The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed warned on Friday that rapidly evolving global crises are threatening peace and economic progress across West Africa.

Speaking at an event commemorating the 49th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ms. Mohammed noted both the progress made in the region as well as the immediate challenges it faces.

“Over the last decade, the region has seen an exponential rise in terrorism that has reversed its development gains,” she said. The deputy UN chief also highlighted the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government as a significant threat to regional stability.

Humanitarian needs are rising amid this complex web of crises, “creating new dynamics, bringing new risks of conflicts, beyond the region,” Ms. Mohammed added.

To address these pressing issues, the UN official underscored the need for a multilateral and inclusive response, calling on the use of “all existing tools” as well as the design of new collective solutions. She stressed the importance of strong democratic institutions and urged the region to address the root causes of conflicts.

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 will also require “bold and transformative” actions, including investments in areas such as energy transitions, food systems, and climate action, Ms. Mohammed said.