The Gulf of Guinea, an important maritime trade route for Europe, has seen a rise in piracy and armed robbery attempts in recent years. While regional African initiatives and international support have significantly reduced piracy, it has not been totally eradicated. Increased insecurity in the states of the Sahel has raised socio-economic pressures on West African coastal states, potentially leading to a resurgence of illegal activities in the region. European states must continue to invest in this area, partnering closely with the African coastal states.

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Research line: Sahel and Sub-Saharan Africa

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e-Note 67

The Gulf of Guinea at the Heart of
an Unavoidable Maritime Trade Route

Rodolphe van HÖVELL