The Sahel is described by the UN as a region in crisis: those living there are prey to chronic insecurity, climate shocks, conflict, coups, and the rise of criminal and terrorist networks. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a leading player in efforts to bolster security by stopping trafficking attempts. "Organized crime is feeding on the vulnerabilities and also undermining stability and development in the Sahel," says François Patuel, head of the UNODC Research and Awareness Unit. "Combining efforts and taking a regional approach will lead to success in addressing organized crime in the region." "If nothing is done, the effects of terrorism, violent extremism, and organized crime will be felt far beyond the region and the African continent," Mr. Guterres warned in 2022.

Source: The North Africa Journal May 20, 2023 18:10 UTC