In West Africa, implementing these measures could mitigate the dangers of terrorism. Across West Africa, national economies are about 70 percent agrarian, with a majority of farmers operating only at subsistence levels. Unemployed youth in West Africa are often those drawn to violent extremism, as unemployment and poverty can make young people dissatisfied with their national governments. However, counter-terrorism efforts in West Africa typically involve armed combat and are more reactive than preventive. Left unaddressed, youth unemployment in West Africa will continue to give rise to disaffection and potential radicalization.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 15, 2017 13:52 UTC