The hasty departure of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (Minusma) from the city of Kidal is raising concerns within the mission. While the departure deadline is set for December 31, Minusma wishes to accelerate its withdrawal for security reasons. However, flight authorizations for its planes, essential for transporting personnel, are either refused or granted sparsely.
This situation raises concerns about the safety of mission staff still present in Kidal. Despite coordination efforts with the Malian army, only a plane and a helicopter from Minusma obtained the necessary authorizations to go to Kidal and repatriate some of the personnel. The other mission workers are still waiting and hope to be able to leave before the October 31 deadline.
Initially, the closure of the Kidal peacekeeper camp was planned for mid-November. However, the tense security situation in the region has prompted Minusma to anticipate its withdrawal. The rebel groups which control the city have expressed their intention to take possession of the place, or even to prevent the Malian army from accessing it. For their part, the regular troops want the Blue Helmets to stay there until their arrival to avoid any security vacuum.
Faced with this delicate situation, the UN is trying to organize a secure withdrawal of its forces from Kidal. However, ongoing challenges related to flight authorizations make this operation more complex. Minusma must find alternative solutions to guarantee the safety of its personnel while respecting the constraints imposed by local authorities.
This scenario demonstrates the difficulties peacekeeping missions face on the ground. Coordination with local stakeholders, management of security and logistical constraints as well as taking into account political issues are major challenges in carrying out these missions. Minusma continues its efforts to ensure a smooth transition and continued stability in the northern region of Mali.