(Article) Diplomatic tensions between France and Niger continue, with the expulsion of the French ambassador from the country. This diplomatic crisis comes on top of previous tensions with Mali and Burkina Faso, highlighting a loss of expertise on the part of France in managing the situation in the Sahel.
The article emphasizes that France did not see the coup d’état coming in Niger, which raises questions about its anticipation and intelligence capabilities. He points to the responsibility of the Élysée in the definition and conduct of France’s African policy, which is often disconnected from the reality on the ground.
It is also mentioned that the reform of the diplomatic corps, initiated by the Élysée, is not responsible for this situation, although it may have long-term negative consequences in terms of knowledge and expertise.
The article sheds light on the growing anti-French sentiment in Africa, which goes beyond Moscow’s maneuvers. The aid policy and the economic policy of France, in particular with the CFA franc, are strongly criticized. However, Operation Barkhane, which lasted eight years, is identified as the trigger for the break between France and certain African countries. The operation was seen as a major strategic mistake.
In conclusion, the article underlines that the military bases of France in Africa are disappearing, because the justifications which supported them, in particular the external operations, become more and more politically inconceivable. Calls to “overhaul” France’s African policy are increasing, but the form that this overhaul should take remains to be defined.
In summary, this article discusses diplomatic tensions between France and Niger, highlighting France’s loss of expertise in managing the situation in the Sahel. He also underlines the criticisms against French policy in Africa, in particular Operation Barkhane, and evokes the prospect of the disappearance of French military bases in Africa