North and West Africa

The missing piece: Political parties are critical to democracy in Africa

By Santiago Stocker, Patrick Quirk, and Dan Scaduto

As many as seventeen countries in Africa will head to the polls in 2024. This piece analyzes the state of political parties in Sub-Saharan Africa, using Freedom and Prosperity Indexes data to show why multiparty systems are key to democratic strength.

Algeria’s Morocco obsession has killed reconciliation prospects

By Samir Bennis

For nearly five decades, Algeria has used the dispute over Western Sahara as a front for its antagonization of Morocco.

A war is raging between Algeria and Morocco. It is being fought in the heritage arena.

By Sarah Zaaimi

As political tensions between Algiers and Rabat have continued to mount since 2020, another front is being fought with no possible détente in sight.

Behind Morocco’s bid to unlock the Sahel

By Rama Yade, Abdelhak Bassou

The people in Sahelian countries deserve peace and prosperity. Morocco's newest initiative could offer a plan to help attain that.

With Africa’s minerals in demand, Russia and the US each offer what the other can’t

By Alexander Tripp

African countries must choose wisely between the United States and Russia in their search for a partner on critical minerals.

Dispatch from Rome: Political stability gives Italy a chance to step into the spotlight

By Jörn Fleck, Rachel Rizzo, James Batchik, Nicholas O’Connell

With newfound steadiness at home, Rome can make its priorities for the West heard, especially the security of the Mediterranean and outreach to Africa.

State of the Order: Continuing challenges to the world order raise the urgency for Gaza ceasefire and Ukraine aid

The State of the Order breaks down the month's most important events impacting the democratic world order.

In Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s win shows that change comes through the ballot box

By Rama Yade

The West African country has shown that its reputation as a democratic bastion in its region remains strong.

Investing in women accelerates prosperity and peace

By Nicole Goldin

Expanding opportunities for women is essential for economic resilience and recovery during and after conflicts.