The situation in Mali has become increasingly worrying in recent days, with the return of violence in the north of the country. Indeed, the coalition of armed groups from the north, the CSP-PSD, claimed responsibility for a deadly attack against the armed forces in the town of Bourem. This attack marks the return of open war in a region which had already been the scene of an insurrection in 2012.
Tensions between former rebel groups and the ruling military had been palpable for several months. The CSP-PSD coalition, composed mainly of Tuareg political and military movements, decided to take action by launching this “anticipatory” attack against the Malian army and its Wagner partners in Bourem.
In recent days, former rebel groups have called for resistance and mobilization of local populations against the Malian army, accused of having violated the peace agreement signed in 2015. This agreement provided for the disarmament of the rebels and their integration within the Malian administration, as well as greater political autonomy for the northern region, called “Azawad” by the rebels.
This attack marks the end of the agreement for peace and reconciliation in Mali, also known as the Algiers agreement. This agreement, concluded in 2014, aimed to avoid the fragmentation of the Malian state and to guarantee peace and national reconciliation. Unfortunately, discussions on the implementation of this agreement have been increasingly tense since the military came to power in 2021, reaching a breaking point.
The resumption of hostilities in Mali revives painful memories, notably France’s intervention in 2013 to stop the advance of rebel and jihadist groups towards the capital Bamako. This situation is all the more worrying as the withdrawal of Minusma forces is underway and the north of the country is facing an increase in jihadist attacks.
The situation in Mali is complex and requires a comprehensive approach to achieve peace and stability. It is crucial that all actors involved engage in constructive dialogue and respect agreements already reached. The international community must also provide support to guarantee security and sustainable development in Mali. The situation in Mali cannot be ignored, as it has implications not only for the country itself, but also for the entire Sahel region.