West Africa

West Africa is a region grappling with political instability, migration challenges, and the enduring influence of its colonial past. Recent news highlights these interconnected issues. Burkina Faso's junta has banned political parties, raising concerns about suppression of dissent following the 2022 coup. Simultaneously, a migrant boat capsized off the coast of The Gambia, resulting in multiple deaths and missing persons, underscoring the perilous nature of migration routes in the region. The legacy of French colonialism, particularly its 'civilising mission' through language and cultural assimilation, continues to shape West African societies. Despite these challenges, West African culture is celebrated and promoted, as seen in Dakar's ECOFEST 2025, which emphasizes culture's role in fostering resilience amid political crises. The region's current relevance lies in its struggle to balance political stability, address migration pressures, and navigate its complex historical and cultural identity.