Benin evaluates anti-violent extremism mechanism with three European countries

On October 27, 2026, Cotonou hosted a workshop on the results and strategic direction of the Coastal States Stability Mechanism (MSEC), implemented by the IOM and funded by the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. The programme has worked for three years in border communities most exposed to violent extremism. Deputy Minister Djibril Mama Cissé called for stronger local ownership, better coordination, youth inclusion and improved impact monitoring. In northern Benin, Operation Mirador has deployed about 3,000 soldiers against extremist groups.