On 11 July 2025, the IIJ successfully concluded the online component of the 8th edition of its programme of excellence Counter-Terrorism Academic Curriculum (CTAC) for Francophone criminal justice practitioners from West and Central Africa and the Sahel. Over the past month, 50 pre-selected prosecutors, investigative judges, and law enforcement officials participated in interactive modules and scenario-based tutorials focused on case management, inter-agency cooperation, and investigative techniques tailored to terrorism cases in their regions.
The closing session received excellent feedback from participants, who highlighted the value of working collaboratively during group exercises and the final tabletop exercise built around a realistic terrorism case scenario. This practical approach helped consolidate learning and deepen participants’ understanding of how to apply new skills and knowledge to complex real-world investigations.
At the end of the online component, 26 practitioners successfully completed all course requirements and have now been selected to join the in-person component of the CTAC, which will take place in October 2025. This next stage will offer an intensive, practice-oriented environment to strengthen peer networks and further equip participants to address terrorism threats effectively, while upholding human rights and the rule of law.
A Prosecutor from Cameroon noted in the closing “Thank you so much for selecting us to join the eCTAC. We will do our best to put into practice everything we have learned. Personally, I will work with my colleagues to explore how we can use this knowledge to help influence changes in legislation in our country.” A Prosecutor from Cameroon
A General Counsel from Guinea also stated “I have received multiple trainings from different organisations, but I have never participated in such a complete and well-rounded course. What is truly special about the IIJ training is its unique method, which really motivates participants and pushes us to do our best.”
