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Protecting public spaces from terrorist threats in Senegal

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The EU project Public Spaces+ is implemented by FIAP and the Spanish Guardia Civil. Together with Senegalese partners, the project has designed a total of nine specialised training programmes in the country, which aim to strengthen training and operational capacities in key areas fundamental to the protection of public spaces against terrorist attacks.

As part of these training sessions, a total of 12 members of the Senegalese gendarmerie and national police underwent training in Dakar: three gendarmes and three police officers trained to be tactical snipers, and three gendarmes and three police officers trained to be intervention dog handlers. The trainings took place at the École Nationale de Police in Mermoz, and the Centre d’instruction cynotechnique de la Gendarmerie Nationale in Mbao. 

A highly standardized training programme

Eight Senegalese instructors who completed a similar programme in Spain in November 2025 delivered the training.  They were also accompanied by two instructors from the Guardia Civil's anti-terrorist unit. This train-the-trainer model ensures high technical standards, human rights and gender considerations, and continuity over time. It seeks to disseminate knowledge using a cascade approach through the Senegalese training institutions and well-supported Senegalese trainers. The training was practical, focusing on the skills and competencies used by members of canine and sniper units, which the trainee trainers learn to use in tactical deployments and protection at real large-scale events.

Two men are lying on their front in sniper positions. One man is sitting between down between them. They are in a vast desert expanse.
A "shooter and observer" drill as part of advanced sniper training. European Commission

IV Youth Olympic Games in Senegal. A real test to law enforcement capacities

Senegal's security capabilities will be put to the test during the IV Youth Olympic Games, which are set to take place in the country from 31 October to 13 November 2026. Training sessions and other project activities, including exercises, equipment donations and operational study visits, will provide valuable support to Senegal during this exceptional event. 

Senegal borders Central Sahel, which is one of the world's main terrorist hotspots. With groups such as JNIM (an Al Qaeda franchise) and ISIS operating in regional neighbours Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, Senegal faces a real risk of terrorism. EU-funded projects such as Public Spaces+ strengthen Senegal’s capacity to keep those risks at bay and to ensure safe public spaces for all. 

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