Guinea-Bissau: a country plagued by chronic political instability
Who could have predicted that such a small West African country would be the scene of so many coups and putsch attempts in just fifty years? Guinea-Bissau, with its small population and weak economic development, seems condemned to perpetual political instability.
One of the major factors contributing to this instability is the lack of solid economic development. Indeed, due to its colonial past and lack of investment, Guinea-Bissau has a weak private sector. Thus, state control becomes the only way for the elite to prosper. A fierce struggle is therefore taking place within this elite to acquire power, which only accentuates political instability.
Furthermore, the country also inherited an experience of war of liberation, having obtained its independence from Portugal following an armed struggle lasting several years. This military experience has generated a persistent question about the role of the military in society and their legitimacy to intervene in the political life of the country. Thus, the military often finds itself involved in political conflicts, thus exacerbating instability.
A major problem fueling this instability is drug trafficking. Guinea-Bissau has become a hub for cocaine trafficking between Latin America and Europe, leading it to be considered a narco-state by the UN. Political rivalries also feed on this trafficking, with accusations of drug trafficking used as a means to discredit certain factions and pursue their interests. This situation further weakens the country and fuels political competition.
It is important to emphasize that Guinea-Bissau is not an isolated case in West Africa. Drug trafficking and the involvement of certain state elites in it are also present in other countries in the region. However, Guinea-Bissau is highlighted because of the resulting political instability. In more stable countries, those involved in trafficking manage to maintain greater discretion.
In conclusion, Guinea-Bissau faces chronic political instability, fueled by weak economic development, power struggles within the elite and the persistent influence of the military. Drug trafficking acts as a catalyst for this instability by exacerbating political rivalries and tensions. It is therefore essential to find lasting solutions to get this country out of the cycle of political instability and guarantee a more stable and prosperous future for its inhabitants.