The Sahel is confronting a multidimensional humanitarian emergency shaped by armed conflict, political upheaval, climate pressures, and economic disruption. Across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, millions have been displaced, food insecurity remains acute, and attacks on civilians and restrictions on humanitarian access continue to compound vulnerability.
These pressures are unfolding amid a fundamental reconfiguration of the region’s external relationships. As Western military and diplomatic engagement has receded, Russia and other actors have expanded their presence, while Sahelian governments have pursued new political and security partnerships.
What do these shifts mean for humanitarian assistance, civilian protection, and accountability? Which actors retain the capacity and legitimacy to deliver assistance and influence outcomes? And what role can the United States realistically play as the regional order continues to evolve?
Featured Speakers
Kate Hixon, Advocacy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, Amnesty International
Lesley Anne Warner, Visiting Scholar, Africa Program, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Hafed Al Ghwell, Senior Advisor and Director Emeritus, North Africa, the Mediterranean and the Sahel Program, Stimson Center (Moderator)
