The Center for Anti-Terrorism and Extremism Research (CATER) is dedicated to addressing the significant security threats and challenges faced by the West African sub-region. The rise of terrorist and extremist groups, coupled with complex socio-political factors, has led to increased instability and threats to human security.
At CATER, we believe in the power of research to drive
change. Our programs are meticulously designed to provide actionable
recommendations and strategies that enhance community resilience. Through
comprehensive research projects, capacity-building initiatives, and community
engagement activities, we aim to prevent the emergence and invasion of
terrorist groups.
Our mission is to foster a safer, more secure environment
for all. By collaborating with local communities, governments, and
international partners, we strive to build a robust framework that supports
peace, transparency, and accountability.
CATER was established to address the persistent issue of
terrorism in West Africa, which has been a significant threat to maintaining
peace and ensuring the security of citizens in the sub-region. Terrorist
activities have severely impacted human existence by instilling fear,
restricting free movement, and disrupting economic, educational, and democratic
processes. Terrorism represents a form of revolt where individuals or groups
impose extreme political, social, and religious ideals that undermine the principles
of democratic governance.
The Sahel and the broader West African region have faced
escalating threats from terrorism and violent extremism, resulting in
substantial devastation. Recently, the United Nations Special Representative of
the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and
the Sahel (UNOWAS) highlighted the growing insecurity, worsening humanitarian
crises, and insufficient cooperation among states to address these issues. In
the central Sahel, conflict-related fatalities from political violence
increased by 38%, and civilian deaths rose by over 18%. The West African region
is the most affected, accounting for 43% of global terrorism deaths.
Jihadist groups such as Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), Islamic
State Sahel Province (ISSP), and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) are
the primary terrorist factions active in this region. Burkina Faso, Mali, and
Niger, the three states most affected by terrorism, are currently undergoing
complex political transitions and facing significant governance crises. These
conditions favor terrorist groups, enabling them to intensify their insurgency
and expand their operations into coastal West African countries.
The withdrawal of the UN Multidimensional Integrated
Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the decision by the transitional
authorities of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Group of Five for the Sahel
(G5 Sahel) to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) have created major shifts
and uncertainties in the region. This environment is conducive to terrorist
actors strengthening their positions. While each country in the region faces
distinct challenges, they share common issues such as structural
vulnerabilities, weak governance, limited state presence, and porous borders.
Together, we are committed to making a tangible impact on
the ground. Our collaborative efforts ensure that our research and
recommendations are theoretically sound and practically
applicable.
Our Core Values
At CATER, our work is guided by a set of core values that
reflect our commitment to excellence and integrity:
- Integrity: We uphold the highest honesty and ethical conduct standards in all our endeavors.
- Collaboration: We believe in the power of partnerships and work closely with communities, governments, and international organizations to achieve our goals.
- Innovation: We are committed to continuous learning and innovation, leveraging cutting-edge research and methodologies to address complex security challenges.
- Empowerment: We strive to empower local communities and leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to build resilience against terrorism and extremism.
- Transparency: We maintain transparency in our operations and decision-making processes, ensuring accountability to our stakeholders.
- Respect: We respect the diverse perspectives and experiences of all individuals and communities we work with, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Join us in our commitment to creating a world free from the
scourge of terrorism and extremism.
