Guinea-Bissau: a country caught in the whirlwind of political instability
Since its independence in 1973, Guinea-Bissau has experienced a series of coups and putsch attempts that have plunged the country into unprecedented political instability. This situation has multifactorial origins, but some fundamental causes are worth exploring.
First of all, weak economic development is a key element of this instability. Guinea-Bissau is a small country with a small population, which has seen little investment, particularly during the colonial period. This absence of a robust private sector creates dependence on the state, which becomes the main issue in fierce struggles within the ruling elite. Thus, acquiring control of the state becomes a primary objective, contributing to the political instability of the country.
Another factor that reinforced this instability was the experience of the war of liberation. Guinea-Bissau is in fact the only country in West Africa to have obtained its independence after an armed struggle against Portugal. This military experience left a lasting imprint on society, granting the military a special role and legitimacy in the country’s politics. This situation has created a trend towards military intervention in the management of political affairs, thus fueling instability.
A third dimension of instability in Guinea-Bissau is the scourge of drug trafficking. Considered a narco-state by the UN, the country has become a hub for cocaine trafficking between Latin America and Europe. This illicit trade has exacerbated political tensions and been used as a weapon in power struggles. Competing factions are quick to use drug trafficking accusations to discredit their rivals, using law enforcement and the justice system to weaken their political adversaries. This creates a fragile and unstable political environment where factions compete fiercely.
It is essential to understand that the situation in Guinea-Bissau is a reflection of broader challenges facing many countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Weak economic development, the trauma of war and the influence of drug trafficking networks are part of a set of complex issues that fuel political instability.
To end this cycle of instability, it is necessary to invest in economic development and the creation of a strong private sector. Furthermore, political reforms and better governance are essential to strengthen state institutions and reduce the risks of corruption and external interference. Finally, increased international collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking is essential to break the links between organized crime and politics.
Guinea-Bissau has enormous potential, but the realization of this potential can only be realized if strong measures are taken to overcome the obstacles that hinder its development. This will require a sincere commitment from national leaders and the international community to stabilize the country and allow Guinea-Bissau to finally see an end to the political instability that has haunted it for too long.