Recurrent coups have increased the existing political instability in Mali. A major issue has been the unidimensional focus of the international community and regional players in providing only military support without adequately pushing for strengthening of Malian government apparatus.
The growing trend of attacks on international entities besides the government units and civilians in Mali is an issue of serious concern. The complex security situation in Mali and high fatalities of peacekeepers has led to MINUSMA being perceived as the most dangerous UN Peacekeeping mission.
While northern Mali remains under the control of armed groups, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) prepares an intervention force to assist Malian forces in a battle to restore Mali’s sovereignty.
The recent French intervention in Mali comes almost after a year of turmoil in the country. Mali needs to achieve an internal political process which will strengthen the government’s mandate and provide economic security and sustainable development to the country.
