Interplay of Terrorism and Ethnic Complexities in the Sahel Region: The Case of Fulani Community

  • Aditya Gulati
  • Show Author Details
  • Aditya Gulati

    Student at OP Jindal Global University, India

  • img Download Full Paper

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate interplay between ethnic complexities, militant Islamism, and the alarming increase in terrorism within the Sahel region. Focusing on the disproportionate involvement of Fulani individuals in militant Islamist groups, the study examines how escalating intercommunal conflicts have become a fertile ground for terrorism. As rural communities, facing insecurity, form militias for self-defence, the security landscape becomes increasingly complex. Militant Islamist groups strategically exploit existing tensions, legitimizing their authority and perpetuating a dangerous cycle of retaliation. This paper also delves into the stigmatization of Fulani individuals as jihadists, leading to the characterization of the current crisis as a "Fulani jihad" or "Fulani rebellion." Insurgent groups featuring Fulani fighters, such as the Islamic State of the Greater Sahara and Ansar Dine, contribute to the stigmatization. In conclusion, the research underscores the critical need for comprehensive approaches to address the interconnected challenges of extremism, intercommunal violence, and the increasing terrorism plaguing the Sahel region. Understanding the dynamics of ethnic complexities and their relationship with militant Islamism is pivotal for developing effective strategies to restore peace, social harmony, and stability in this vulnerable region.

Type

Research Paper

Information

International Journal of Law Management and Humanities, Volume 7, Issue 3, Page 4383 - 4404

DOI: https://doij.org/10.10000/IJLMH.117944

Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution -NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits remixing, adapting, and building upon the work for non-commercial use, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © IJLMH 2021