Algeria is often seen as averse to security cooperation, but it has been deeply involved in Africa’s security architecture for years.

Libya’s plans for a General Purpose Force have the potential to aid its security situation, but to be successful they must address a number of logistical, political, and institutional issues.

Given the grim prospects for resolving the crisis in Mali, North African governments will have to look South on security matters for years to come.

The Arab Spring has created new opportunities for the Kingdom to engage regionally—as the upcoming Community of Sahel-Saharan States meeting is likely to reveal.