Second Edition of the International Congress on Security Governance Concludes in Agadir
The city of Agadir, Morocco, recently played host to the second edition of the International Congress on Security Governance, Innovation, and Development in Africa (CIGSIDA 2026), which wrapped up on Wednesday. This significant event was organized by Ibn Zohr University in collaboration with the Afro-Mediterranean Institute for Risk Studies and Analysis (IAMAR). Over the course of three days, the congress attracted academics, researchers, institutional leaders, and experts from more than 28 countries, showcasing a diverse array of perspectives on contemporary security issues.
Discussions at the congress focused on the evolving landscape of security, justice, and public action, particularly in light of the changing risk dynamics, digital transformations, and the burgeoning influence of artificial intelligence. Participants included distinguished experts and officials from both the United Nations and the African Union, who engaged in fruitful debates regarding the prerequisites for effective, responsible security that respects human rights, as well as the challenges faced by African nations. The congress also emphasized the need to bolster international cooperation and strengthen institutional capacities to enhance security across the continent.
Morocco Declared 'African Champion' of Security Governance
A highlight of the opening ceremony was the announcement made by Daniël Prins, the Director of Security Sector Reform within the Office of Rule of Law and Security Institutions (OROLSI) at the United Nations Department of Peace Operations. He officially designated Morocco as the "African Champion in Security Governance." This recognition underscores Morocco's significant commitment to enhancing security on the continent.
In a statement to the Moroccan News Agency (MAP), Jon-Hans Coetzer, a senior program specialist and team leader at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), commended Morocco's "important" engagement in promoting continental security. He noted that the consolidation of security and stability in Africa hinges on strengthening partnerships at the international level, particularly with the scientific community. Coetzer also highlighted the importance of discussions surrounding current transformations, especially the rise of artificial intelligence, to meet citizen expectations and ensure effective security measures.
Mohamadi Ouédraogo, a security sector reform advisor at the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), emphasized the congress's significance in bringing together African experts to discuss the critical theme of security sector governance. He remarked that the contributions from the participants enriched the discussions on a topic that is gaining increasing importance each year.
The event featured several workshops led by national and international experts, addressing current issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and African cooperation. In a gesture of recognition, trophies were awarded to various security officials, academics, and experts for their contributions to the success of the congress.
As reported by lavieeco.com.
