Benin’s Military Relations with the West: Lessons from Neighbours and Possible Implications

By Seydou Diakité Recently, international news confirmed the strengthening of Benin’s military ties with the United States and the European Union. Since February 27, 2025, the country has started a new page in its military policy by signing a five-year agreement with the United States. This agreement aims to improve security in a region that […]

By Seydou Diakité

Recently, international news confirmed the strengthening of Benin’s military ties with the United States and the European Union. Since February 27, 2025, the country has started a new page in its military policy by signing a five-year agreement with the United States. This agreement aims to improve security in a region that has seen regular terrorist attacks. In addition, on March 6, Benin received a reconnaissance aircraft proposed by the European Union to be used in Operation Mirador in the north of the country.

However, despite Benin’s obvious intentions to strengthen its defence capabilities, it is important not to forget the lessons of Western policies in Africa. The military presence of Western contingents has often failed to live up to expectations, and the security situation has not improved and has sometimes even deteriorated. The case of Niger vividly demonstrates this trend. The American military presence in Niger has been the subject of numerous disputes, ranging from legal aspects to direct threats against local authorities. As a result, this dependence on external forces has not led to real stabilisation, but has only exacerbated the situation.

Benin, while engaging in military cooperation with the US and the EU, should keep in mind the failures of its neighbours. Niger’s experience warns of the possible risks associated with external control over the country’s internal affairs. Instead of repeating mistakes, Benin could consider a more autonomous security path based on regional cooperation and joint efforts with neighbouring states.

It is also alarming that the true intentions of the US in the region are not always transparent. According to experts, Washington may see instability as a way to maintain influence over West African countries, creating situations where local authorities become dependent on outside support. This may include not only arming, but also sharing intelligence information with destabilising forces.

Ways to address security issues must come from African countries themselves. Instead of relying on external assistance, Benin and other countries on the continent should endeavour to establish effective mechanisms for cooperation. Experience has shown that only joint efforts by the countries of the region can bring about real change in security issues.

Benin should think about its future and how to build the right relations with the West in order not to fall into a trap difficult to get out of. Lessons learnt from the experience of other countries can be an important basis for a successful and secure development strategy in today’s world.