The “other” European security programs in the Sahel
(BRUSSELS2) The European Union did not wait for the coup in Mali to deal with the security situation in the Sahel. And the launching, at the end of July, of the Eusec mission in Niger is only one of the elements of response to this crisis. The Europeans actually finance several projects that have an important “security” dimension. Some details.
Border management and measurement of migration flows
The West Sahel project, 80% funded by the European Commission (€1,95 million) and implemented by the Spanish Guardia Civil. Launched on January 22, 2012, it focuses on Mauritania and its 5000 km of borders. It includes several parts. First of all, the reinforcement of Mauritania's capacities: police training (initially, 15 gendarmes must be trained by the Spaniards, and joint patrols must be organized) and logistical equipment (computers, vehicles, infrared glasses , etc). But also a more regional aspect: it is a question of promoting exchanges and cooperation with Niger, Mali and Senegal, but also with the European Union, through annual meetings.
Another project aims to improve the measurement of migratory flows and the fight against migrant trafficking in Niger. It is also a question of equipping the border posts but also of training and raising the awareness of the security forces in the establishment of statistics, documentary checks and the rights of migrants.
Support for the rule of law
The PAJED 2 program (Support Program for Justice and the Rule of Law), amounting to 15 million euros over 5 years. It aims to consolidate the rule of law and strengthen good governance in Niger: improving the functioning of and access to justice, strengthening security and capacities to fight organized crime and trafficking. This includes training, construction of premises and equipment (in particular the police archives services). It is also a matter of promoting cooperation between the various services.
Fight against terrorism and organized crime
The project to combat terrorism and organized crime (or CT Sahel), started a few months ago and financed to the tune of 6,7 million euros by the Instrument for Long-Term Stability, focuses on three countries : Mali, Mauritania and Niger. For once, the project includes training actions for internal security forces (intervention techniques, collection and use of intelligence, particularly in the forensic services) and legal personnel (taking account of specific elements of terrorism in a trial). It also provides for the creation of a Sahelian Security College (CSS), whose trainers must also be trained. Also, logistical support is set up with the provision of equipment (for example non-lethal equipment for interventions and protection, but also means of communication or transport). Finally, it is a matter of promoting regional cooperation, by sharing information (pooled police files).
Read also: sahel section
