Francophone West African states are undergoing significant transformations. Internal changes are evident in the political sphere. To look ahead to the region’s near future, we have sought to decipher current dynamics and determine their likely longevity or potential configuration in the short and medium term. These internal processes seem to be fueled by international issues that, in turn, shape local concerns. Two key factors stand out in defining this near future: the youthfulness of the region’s majority population and the rivalries between major global powers. This is a cautious exercise in foresight that does not seek to establish an infallible linear progression, but simply to gather elements in an attempt to outline the contours of the very near future. By examining the implications of these two major factors, we have concluded that this region is set for a turbulent near future, characterized by a strong emphasis on symbolism and political spectacle. It will also be marked by the repercussions of power struggles between major international powers.
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