In West Africa, countries are playing a complex game of international relations. Some nations are sticking with old partners, like France, while others are looking to new allies, such as Russia. Togo stands out as it tries to balance these relationships.
After a failed military coup in Benin on December 7, the leader, Lt Col Pascal Tigri, escaped to Togo and later received asylum. Togo’s response under President Faure Gnassingbé highlights its diplomatic skill. Togo is careful not to take an open stance against Benin’s President Patrice Talon, even as it builds friendly ties with Burkina Faso and Niger, both of which have recently experienced military coups.
Gnassingbé has shown he’s not afraid to remind France, Togo’s traditional ally, that he has options. Just weeks after meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron for talks in Paris, he traveled to Moscow to sign a defense agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This agreement allows Russian naval vessels to use Togo’s well-equipped Lomé port, enhancing Russia’s influence in the region.
This shift is part of a broader strategy—Togo is not formally breaking ties with the West, but rather diversifying its partnerships. This approach resonates with many West African countries feeling pressure to choose a side in a growing geopolitical competition.
Togo’s port is a vital hub in West Africa, capable of accommodating large cargo ships, which aids local economies. Despite its strategic positioning, Togo still faces economic challenges, especially in its rural areas. In a recent effort to boost local resilience, Togo has even joined both the International Francophonie Organisation and the Commonwealth, aiming to connect with a wider range of partners.
Gnassingbé’s approach to international relations is also closely tied to his domestic politics. In early 2024, changes to the constitution transformed the presidency into a ceremonial role, while real power shifted to the prime minister—allowing him to maintain influence without term limits. This controversial shift has led to unrest, with critics silenced and protests quickly quashed.
Concerns about political repression can’t be ignored. Some high-profile critics remain in custody, and there are claims of violence against demonstrators. The European Parliament has called for the release of political prisoners, which Togo’s government dismisses, citing a fully independent justice system.
Gnassingbé’s diverse international strategy appears to signal to potential critics that he can forge partnerships elsewhere, giving him some leeway in handling dissent. However, Togo has a history of sudden civil unrest. Recently, he hinted at possible amnesty for activists during a state address, acknowledging the underlying tensions in the country.
In summary, Togo aims to solidify its position amidst shifting alliances in West Africa. The country’s geographical advantages make it a key player, and its strategies could reshape its political landscape. But balancing international relations while managing internal dissatisfaction poses a real challenge for Gnassingbé.
For more insights on West Africa’s changing political dynamics, check out reports from trusted sources like the [BBC](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news) and [African Arguments](https://africanarguments.org).
