A session of exchanges on the prevention of violent extremism and respect for human rights was opened in Kédougou, Senegal, on September 26, 2026. The meeting brings together defense and security forces (FDS) and various actors from the justice system, prison administration, and civil society. The goal is to equip participants to better prevent, detect, and manage the risks of violent extremism while respecting human rights.
Mariéme Diarra, a jurist and head of the Boutique du droit in Kédougou, emphasized that FDS must strengthen their skills in understanding radicalization mechanisms, communicating with populations, respecting human rights, and managing conflicts. This is crucial to restore trust between FDS and populations, a prerequisite for any sustainable prevention strategy. Diarra is a member of the Association of Senegalese Jurists (AJS).
The workshop aims to create a direct dialogue space between FDS and trusted relays that anchor early warning mechanisms on already legitimate community channels. Participants include imams, priests/pastors, and "Badiénou Gox" (neighborhood godmothers) from Kédougou. Diarra highlighted the need for particular vigilance in Kédougou, which has documented interreligious sensitivity, with a Muslim majority among Peuls and Malinkés, and Christian minorities among Bassari, Bedik, and Coniagui.
The selection of religious leaders has respected a concerted confessional balance with local religious and administrative authorities, in a neutral and moderated dialogue format. Diarra stressed that this approach is essential for effective prevention and management of violent extremism risks. The session is part of the "SEN Résilience" project.
Pendala Boubane, general coordinator of the "SEN Résilience" project, thanked the administrative and judicial authorities, as well as the defense and security forces, for their commitment. She praised the engagement of partners, including the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and the European Union, which finances "SEN Résilience II". Boubane emphasized that there is no sustainable security without population participation and respect for fundamental rights.
The meeting was presided over by El hadj Mouhamadoul Moustpha Gaye, deputy governor in charge of development. The session aims to strengthen collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to prevent and manage violent extremism risks in Kédougou. Participants will discuss strategies to promote trust and understanding between FDS and local communities.
The prevention of violent extremism in Kédougou requires a comprehensive approach that involves FDS, local communities, and other stakeholders. The session will contribute to the development of effective strategies to address the risks of violent extremism while promoting human rights and the rule of law.
Key points
- The session aims to equip participants to better prevent, detect, and manage the risks of violent extremism while respecting human rights.
