Population Growth and Security in Africa

This project summarizes the academic state of the art on the link between population growth and security in Africa (and elsewhere). It investigates three pertinent case studies (Egypt, Mali, and Niger) and draws conclusion for policy to tackle population pressure related conflict risks. The results are presented to practionners in several events.

After providing a brief overview of developments regarding population growth, we explicate the academic state of the art on the link between population growth and security, including some evidence on population growth rates and conflict occurrence in Africa as a whole. We then investigate three pertinent cases in more detail – Egypt, Mali, and Niger. The report concludes by summarizing the findings and outlining recommendations for future policy.