Institut Vidocq's research programme is structured around nine thematic areas, each addressing a distinct dimension of contemporary security. Three priority areas anchor the current research cycle, reflecting the Institute's assessment of the most urgent analytical needs.
Sahel & West Africa
Security dynamics in the Sahel following the withdrawal of Western forces. The role of private military companies, regional coalitions and jihadist groups. State fragility, governance and the Alliance of Sahel States, and the impact on European security and migration flows.
Gulf States & Middle East
The evolving security architecture of the Gulf. The UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia as full-spectrum security actors and strategic investors. Regional power dynamics, normalisation processes and energy security.
Cybersecurity & Information
Critical infrastructure protection, information operations and cyber resilience. The intersection of cyber threats with geopolitical competition, and state-sponsored cyber campaigns and their implications.
Private Security Actors
The rise of private military companies in Africa and beyond. Wagner/Africa Corps, Turkish contractors and Gulf-backed security firms. Accountability, regulation and the privatisation of warfare.
Economic Intelligence
Strategic intelligence for economic decision-making. Due diligence in complex markets, sanctions compliance, illicit financial flows and AML challenges. Protecting economic interests in contested environments.
Maritime Security
Gulf of Guinea piracy, Red Sea disruptions and strategic chokepoints. The intersection of maritime trade, energy security and geopolitical competition.
Critical Minerals & Resources
The geopolitics of critical mineral supply chains. Competition for rare earths, cobalt and lithium. Security implications for Africa, supply chain vulnerability and the energy transition.
Eastern Europe & Ukraine
Security implications of the war in Ukraine. Hybrid warfare, energy security and defense policy shifts in Europe. Post-conflict scenarios and European defense architecture.
Defense & Intelligence Policy
European defense architecture, intelligence cooperation frameworks and the future of multilateral security. Lessons from recent conflicts and the evolution of defense spending.