### Mali-Algeria: survival instinct or true national unity?
The incident that occurred recently on the border between Mali and Algeria, where a Malian drone was shot dead by the Algerian army, has just gathered Malian politicians and civil society around a feeling of unprecedented national unity. However, behind this patriotic facade hides a more nuanced question: this unity, driven by the Malian transitional authorities and reinforced by criticism against Algeria, sincere or simply a strategic response to a perceived crisis?
#### An answer to a crisis: national unity to the test
The current Malian government, resulting from a coup, seems skillfully to exploit this incident to crystallize a feeling of unity among the Malians. The ambient discourse oscillates between exacerbated patriotism and resistance to a foreign aggression. Political and citizen voices are raised to denounce what they call an Algerian “assault”. The criticisms formulated vis-à-vis the Algerian authorities-which are accused of supporting terrorist groups in the region-contribute to the strengthening of a nationalist front. Nevertheless, a more critical look at this situation reveals that this dynamic could also alienate part of the Malian population which does not support the growing ambiguity of leaders on questions of sovereignty and interference.
### History of Mali-Algerian relations: between cooperation and tensions
To better understand this context, it is useful to dive into the history of relations between the two countries. Since independence, Mali and Algeria have shared complex links, oscillating between regional cooperation and political tensions. Algeria, with its influence in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel, has traditionally acted as a mediator in several regional crises. However, Algerian loyalty to certain rebel movements in the region has always aroused suspicion in Bamako.
The 2020 coup d’etat in Mali exacerbated these tensions, bringing out old rivalries but also an identity crisis. Many Malians feel victims of diplomatic and economic isolation, exacerbated by the sanctions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the lack of cooperation with external powers. In this regard, the Algerian attack on the Malian drone could be used by the government as a shield to divert attention from internal criticism.
### Speech analysis: patriotism or instrumentalization?
The speeches emerging from this crisis illustrate a political landscape in transformation. Supporters of the regime say, bluntly, that the Malians will gather behind their leaders in the face of this “attack”. However, this answer is not universal. Political opposition figures and former government personalities call for appeasement, stressing that national unity must not be exploited to strengthen an already disputed regime.
It is imperative to recognize that this polarization of opinions echoes a global phenomenon observed in many countries, where a common enemy is often mobilized to establish a power in place, often against popular will. Analogous examples can be observed in Türkiye in the face of the Kurdish threat, or in China in the face of foreign criticism. In each case, the creation of a feeling of national unity has often hidden deeper internal economic and social concerns.
### The underlying economic issues
Beyond diplomatic tensions and political speeches, the economic reality of Mali is worrying. With a poverty rate bordering on 42% in 2023 and an economy still weakened by increasing insecurity, the need to find post -crisis solutions is crucial. Farms and small rural communities, frequently struck by violence and insecurity, may well become collateral victims of this antagonism, while significant resources are necessary to revitalize an dying economy.
This dynamic could also accentuate Mali’s economic isolation over the long term, especially since countries like Algeria play a key role in regional commercial circuits. In the long term, policies oriented towards regional cooperation, instead of the confrontation, could prove more beneficial to the Malian population and the State.
### Conclusion: Towards a critical reflection on national unity
While the Malians are mobilizing around their flag and their institutions, it is essential to approach this unity with critical reflection. The real challenges of sovereignty, civil rights, and the need to maintain a constructive dialogue with the neighbors must take precedence over an impulsive patriotism. In the end, Mali should not be trapped by nationalist rhetoric to the detriment of a rich and inclusive democratic debate on its political and economic future.
Examination of this incident and its impact recalls that in the contemporary world, crises are often disguised opportunities for political regimes – but at what price for civil society? National unity, to be truly effective, must be built on solid foundations, integrating all votes and promoting a real dialogue between all strata of society.