Recent incidents illustrate the diversity of discontent and security risks in the fractured country.

Piracy off the western coast of Africa is thriving, but many factors will limit its impact on international shipping.

Though international observers hope the Dec. 11 parliamentary elections in Ivory Coast will help repair the damage from the country's 2010-2011 civil war, the elections are more likely to further political grievances.

Incumbent Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo is under increasing pressure as forces loyal to the opposition close in on his main support base. (With STRATFOR map)