The Republic of Togo has unveiled a refined approach to address the escalating security challenges in the Sahel region, positioning itself as a potential mediator between West African nations governed by military regimes and the international community. This strategic pivot comes as countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso face persistent jihadist threats that threaten regional stability.
According to Robert Dussey, Togo’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, the new phase of the country’s Sahel strategy is not merely a response but a necessity. The Sahel has become a hotspot for terrorist activities, endangering the security of neighboring nations and beyond. Dussey emphasized that this revised approach is designed to align with both regional collaboration and Togo’s own security interests.
three strategic pillars for regional security
The Togolese diplomatic framework rests on three key pillars:
- Strengthening regional partnerships: Togo aims to bolster cooperation with neighboring countries to enhance peace and stability across the Sahel.
- Facilitating peace-building initiatives: Lomé seeks to create favorable conditions for dialogue and reconciliation in conflict-ridden areas.
- Supporting political normalization: The government intends to assist nations led by military authorities in transitioning toward democratic governance after the overthrow of elected leaders.
Jean Emmanuel Gnagnon, a researcher at the University of Lomé specializing in state governance and crisis management, acknowledges Togo’s efforts. He notes, “Togo has managed to prevent armed groups from advancing southward and has avoided the long-term establishment of terrorist cells within its borders. Additionally, it has reinforced its security presence across the subregion. Compared to its neighbors, Togo’s containment of spillover effects has been notably effective.”
While Gnagnon concedes that previous strategies have not resolved the crisis entirely, he highlights their role in “buying time and strengthening Togo’s capacity to avert the worst-case scenarios.”
mixed expert assessments on Togo’s diplomatic role
Not all analysts share Gnagnon’s optimism. Madji Diabakaté, a political scientist, expresses skepticism about Togo’s ability to mediate effectively in the Sahel. He states, “The Togolese diplomacy’s enthusiasm mirrors the fable of the frog challenging the ox, claiming it could match its size. When military coups occurred, two crises emerged simultaneously: insecurity and the restoration of democratic governance. Yet, neither issue has seen significant progress. Instead, Togo’s involvement has, at times, weakened the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), particularly by aligning with states that contributed to the crisis.”
Public opinion in Togo also reflects divisions. While some citizens support the government’s regional engagement, others argue that national political stability should take precedence before extending diplomatic assistance to other Sahelian countries.
Despite criticism, Robert Dussey maintains that Togo maintains “constructive relationships with regional and international partners, prioritizing shared interests.”
