Mali crisis: UN peacekeepers are leaving after 10 years – what's needed for a smooth transition

Over 11,000 military personnel from 53 countries are expected to leave the country by 31 December 2023.

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The ConversationThe Conversation
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https://theconversation.com/mali-crisis-un-peacekeepers-are-leaving-after-10-years-whats-needed-for-a-smooth-transition-210210https://theconversation.com/mali-crisis-un-peacekeepers-are-leaving-after-10-years-whats-needed-for-a-smooth-transition-210210
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Wednesday, July 26, 2023
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Tags: 
United Nations Security Council, Communication, Democracy, War, Face, Massacre, Niger, Turkish coup d'état, International recognition of the National Transitional Council, Terrorism, Element, Islamism, Military personnel, Government, Intention, UN Security Council Sanctions Committee on North Korea, UN, National Transitional Council, Corruption, Nursing, Drug, Gum arabic, Risk management
Geotags: 
MALI, ALGERIA, BURKINA FASO, SENEGAL, MAURITANIA, UK, GUINEA, SAHEL, FRANCE
Summary
Key Points: 
  • Over 11,000 military personnel from 53 countries are expected to leave the country by 31 December 2023.
  • Minusma was first deployed in Mali in April 2013 to support the country’s political process and help restore peace and stability.
  • In mid-2012, the north of the country was under the control of terrorist groups.
  • In my view, for Mali to make a peaceful transition to democracy, two key elements are needed.

What’s needed

    • Mali has had measures in place for the withdrawal of UN troops since a new government took over after the 2020 coup.
    • The National Transitional Council approved the creation of a war school in September 2021 to strengthen the national security apparatus and train future army cadres.
    • The intention was to replace foreign troops with local ones in the event of a withdrawal.
    • Delivering this requires government measures that restore security throughout the country, foster national reconciliation and promote good governance.

Why this matters

    • It could also complicate dialogue and negotiation efforts with ex-rebels.
    • A loss of support and commitment from the international community could lead to a reduction in financial aid and political support in the fight against insecurity.
    • This would have a direct impact on the country’s – and Sahel region’s – stability.
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