Protection analysis for an informed response to the Sahel crisis
People in the Sahel are facing a severe protection crisis. Insecurity, forced displacement and escalating violence against civilians expose vulnerable communities, displaced populations, and hosts to massive risks. Correlated with the persisting food crisis and growing access constraints, the protection situation risks further deterioration. Project 21 monitors crisis-affected areas in Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Niger.
Insecurity in Burkina Faso has spread further south and west, now affecting large parts of the country. At the end of 2023, more than 2 million Burkinabe had fled their homes.
In the western Lac province, covered by Project 21 since 2021, severe protection risks affect both host communities and displaced population. In 2023, P21 also expanded to eastern and southern Chad.
Population in Mali is facing insecurity, conflict and limited access to social services. Protection risks are multiplying, particularly in regions bordering Burkina Faso and Niger.
Communities are facing complex needs due to increasing violence and forced displacement, compounded by economic challenges and the impact of climate change.
Project 21
-Regional protection monitoring
Project 21 is an interagency project providing harmonized protection data through monthly interviews in communities affected by crisis in the Sahel. The joint analysis of the protection situation, key risks and emerging trends supports a more efficient response and targeted advocacy, addressing the needs of displaced families and host communities.