This sociocultural study utilizes the GCKN Exploitable Conditions Framework (ECF) to unveil key actors and their motivations for exploiting local and regional vulnerabilities that advance strategic interests and disrupt national, regional, and global security and stability.
Key Judgments:
China, Russia, and violent extremist organizations (VEOs) each employ nuanced strategies in Burkina Faso to exploit sociocultural vulnerabilities for their geopolitical or ideological goals. China focuses on infrastructure for strategic influence. Russia enhances its military presence to counter VEO threats and Western influence. Jihadist VEOs entrench themselves as a parallel legitimate authority to secure influence and footholds.