OUR STORY

The Centre for Alternative Politics & Security, West Africa (CAPS-WA) addresses the region's complex security challenges in the 21st century. Traditional military-focused strategies often ignore the socio-political, economic, and cultural factors driving insecurity. This oversight has perpetuated cycles of violence, poverty, and marginalisation. We aim to promote a holistic and sustainable approach to security that reflects West Africa's unique realities.

Redefining security

We believe security extends beyond conflict absence and border protection; it includes individual and community well-being. CAPS-WA aims to redefine security to embrace economic stability, social cohesion, environmental sustainability, and human dignity, essential for a secure and prosperous West Africa. Recognizing security as inherently political, CAPS-WA addresses political enablers of insecurity—corruption, poor governance, and exclusion. By connecting security with political and social dynamics, we advocate for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of insecurity instead of just its symptoms.

Working for sustainable security

CAPS-WA is not just another think tank or research institute, we are a movement towards a new way of thinking about and practising security in West Africa. Through research, advocacy, training, and advisory services, we aim to inspire a shift in the region's security paradigm—one that prioritises the well-being of all people and recognises the importance of inclusive, participatory, and sustainable solutions. We call on stakeholders from across the region and beyond to join in this endeavour, recognising that achieving lasting peace and security in West Africa is a shared responsibility that requires collective action and a commitment to exploring better ways of being secure.

  • VISION

    We envision a secure and sustainable West Africa where individuals, communities, and states thrive in peace and mutual respect. Security goes beyond the absence of conflict; it encompasses the well-being of all through basic needs fulfilment, protection of cultural values, and opportunities for economic advancement. CAPS-WA aims to catalyse transformation in the region, fostering comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable security for lasting peace and prosperity.

    MISSION

    We aim to promote alternative, sustainable security through research, training, advocacy, and advisory services. It aligns with national, continental, and global legal frameworks, including the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    1. Promote Alternative Security Approaches: We aim to broaden traditional security notions in West Africa by advocating for a holistic understanding that includes social, economic, cultural, and political dimensions.

    2. Empower Communities and Individuals: Our mission prioritizes people-centered security, empowering local communities, especially youth, women, and marginalized groups, to tackle security challenges.

    3. Influence Policy and Practice: We aim to influence security policy at national, regional, and international levels by engaging with relevant policymakers and stakeholders to shape policies that tackle immediate threats and the root causes of insecurity.

    4. Foster Collaboration and Partnerships: We are dedicated to enhancing relationships with governments, regional organizations, international bodies, civil society, and academia to promote sustainable security in the region.

    5. Advance Research and Knowledge: Our agenda focuses on understanding insecurity causes, leveraging indigenous knowledge, and developing new theories for sustainable security in West Africa.

  • CAPS-WA is built on two main pillars: the science of politics and human security. These pillars inform its strategies to tackle West Africa's complex security challenges.

    PILLAR 1: SCIENCE OF POLITICS

    We understand that security issues must be viewed through a political lens. Our approach analyses power relations, interests, and conflicts influencing West Africa's security dynamics. We recognise that insecurity often stems from struggles for power, resources, and representation, deeply embedded in the political fabric. This pillar has three key principles:

    1. Power Dynamics: CAPS-WA analyzes power distribution and exercise among states and communities, focusing on how imbalances lead to insecurity and advocating for solutions to promote equity and stability.

    2. Competing Interests: Security is often contested, with various groups pursuing their interests. CAPS-WA analyses these competing interests, acknowledging their potential to incite conflict while also providing negotiation opportunities.

    3. Conflict Resolution: We apply the science of politics to conflict resolution, focusing on mediating disputes sustainably and justly. The centre's work is rooted in understanding conflict's political origins and emphasizes addressing underlying power dynamics rather than just managing symptoms.

    PILLAR 2: HUMAN SECURITY

    We prioritize human security over traditional state defense. This broader understanding of security protects individuals and communities from various threats to their well-being, encompassing physical safety and economic, social, environmental, and cultural dimensions. This pillar also has three principles:

    1. Protection of Individuals and Communities: We prioritize the security and dignity of individuals and communities. We address threats to human security, such as violence, poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. We aim to ensure that everyone lives with dignity and free from fear.

    2. Beyond Political and Military Threats: Traditional security focuses on political and military threats like terrorism, conflict, and security borders. We value these concerns and sometimes consider them necessary. However, we also recognize that insecurity often stems from non-military factors. CAPS-WA adopts a holistic approach, tackling the full range of human security threats.

    3. Empowerment and Development: Human security is tied to development. CAPS-WA empowers individuals and communities by enhancing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, which foster well-being. The centre asserts that development is crucial for long-term security, and improving security must align with promoting human development.

    Characteristics of the CAPS-WA Approach

    The CAPS--WA APPROACH has four characteristics that distinguish it from more conventional strategies:

    1. Past-/Future-Oriented: CAPS-WA’s work is rooted in West Africa's historical insecurity context and anticipates future challenges. We leverage past experiences and adapt to changing circumstances.

    2. People and Community-Focused: We are dedicated to West African communities, prioritizing local perspectives to address security needs. We believe security solutions must reflect the realities of those they aim to protect.

    3. Addressing Latent Insecurity: CAPS-WA targets hidden insecurities, including structural and cultural violence—systemic inequality, discrimination, and social exclusion. We seek to prevent the emergence or escalation of insecurity by tackling these root causes.

    4. Targeting Negative Political Legitimacy and Negative Peace: CAPS-WA focuses on negative political legitimacy, where power lacks genuine consent and negative peace, where conflict absence does not mean justice. We aim to foster positive political legitimacy and peace, ensuring responsible power use, equity, and development.

Redefining security in West Africa in more inclusive, sustainable, and effective ways.

CAPS-WA’s purpose is rooted in a vision of a secure and prosperous West Africa, and all of our activities are aligned with this overarching goal.