The War Prevention Initiative is a signatory to the Transpartisan letter on Closing U.S. Military Bases Abroad to Save Money & Improve National & International Security In our assessment, the closing of U.S. military bases overseas will contribute to more security and an decreased likelihood of warfare.

To add to the understanding of the role of U.S. bases and military actions abroad, we initiated a case study of Niger where we examine the role of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).  Utilizing multiple research databases, publicly available U.S. government documents, and work by investigative journalists, we analyze the impact of the U.S. military’s presence in Niger, measuring its effect on levels of civil unrest, political violence, and terrorism. We also examine whether the U.S. military is contributing the to the success of the stated U.S. foreign policy goals in Niger and assess whether alternative methods would yield a more peaceful outcome.

This study is ongoing.