DAKAR (Reuters) - The European Union on Monday approved 1.15 billion euros (£813.78 million) in aid for West Africa through to 2020, nearly doubling its previous commitment to a region that is a major source of migrants seeking to enter Europe.
West Africa is home to some of the world's poorest and historically most unstable countries. Even in peaceful states with good economic growth rates, many governments are struggling to create enough jobs for a booming youth population. Some are choosing to flee across the Sahara towards Europe or join criminal or militant networks.