Role of Islam in the Sahel is multifaceted

Significance

The principal armed militant groups are aligned with al-Qaida or Islamic State. However, Islam plays a wider role in societies from Senegal to Chad and is a cornerstone of family values and cultural and social attitudes and organisation.

Impacts

• In Senegal and Mali, religious leaders exert political influence, although most now avoid partisan alignment, which could undermine them.
• Some religious leaders believe jihadist groups might be drawn into peace talks, but there is little sign of impending dialogue.
• Islamic law is a force for community cohesion in societies under pressure from climate change, poverty and instability.