Mali, located in West Africa, has been in the grip of conflict for many years, with a complex security environment. Despite the efforts of the United Nations, and other international actors, a hostile atmosphere persists in the country, as highlighted by a recent attack which resulted in the deaths of three UN peacekeepers in Mali. This article aims to discuss the ongoing situation in the country, focusing on the attack which took place, the security environment in Mali, and the context in which these events occur.
Background of the Conflict in Mali
Mali is situated in West Africa, sharing its borders with Algeria, Niger, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal, and Mauritania. Since 2012, Mali has been in the throes of a violent conflict which was initially rooted in the grievances of various ethnic and political factions. These factions have vied for control over the country’s political, social and economic structures, resulting in widespread insecurity and instability.
The Tuareg-led
National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad and its allies, in coordination with Islamist groups such as Ansar Dine, Moulath Islam and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, have been at the forefront of the conflict. The main belligerents in the conflict are the Malian government, the Tuareg-led rebellion, and extremist groups like Ansar Dine.
The Conflict in Mali & UN Peacekeeping
The United Nations, in an effort to restore security and stability to the country, has deployed a peacekeeping mission since 2013, which currently consists of over 12,000 personnel. This mission, known as MINUSMA, is tasked with implementing the United Nations peace agreement, protecting civilians, and promoting human rights.
The Attack and its Aftermath
On the night of May 16th 2021, three United Nations peacekeepers from El Salvador were killed and four others injured in an explosive attack in the northern part of the country. The attack targeted a MINUSMA patrol which was conducting a routine patrol near the village of Boni, approximately 90 kilometers from Timbuktu.
This incident marks the fifth deadly attack that MINUSMA personnel have suffered this year, and the mission has condemned the attack and called for an immediate investigation of the perpetrators.
The Investigation
The Malian government, alongside various international forces, have launched an investigation into the attack, with a task force comprised of members from the Malian Armed Forces, MINUSMA and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, along with representatives from France and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
The task force is currently seeking out any leads and information regarding the attack, in order to determine who or what may have been behind it. It is likely that any findings will be put forward to the United Nations Security Council, which could then take further action.
The Security Context
Mali faces an ever-evolving security environment due to the conflict, with a heightened risk of violence from a variety of actors. According to the United Nations, extremist groups are responsible for the majority of violent incidents in the region, including attacks on innocent civilians, UN personnel, and other international forces.
Armed groups have also been known to systematically target aid workers, schools, health centers, and other infrastructure, resulting in a decline in basic services and social functioning.
The international community has also expressed concerns over the presence of violence from non-state actors, especially in areas close to the Burkina Faso and Nigerien borders. The United Nations has identified these areas as well as some parts of central Mali as being particularly vulnerable to attacks.
Potential Solutions
Given the complex security situation, it is crucial that all stakeholders work towards a peaceful solution that can be implemented in a sustainable manner. This includes the formation of strong and effective government institutions, the implementation of effective security measures, and the establishment of the rule of law.
The United Nations has urged both the Malian government and non-state actors to recommit to the peace process, and to hold those responsible for any breaches of it accountable. To this end, they have called for the immediate cessation of violence and the adoption of an inclusive political dialogue.
In addition, the international community has called on all parties to better protect civilians and civil infrastructure. The United Nations has stressed the need for all parties to uphold international human rights, humanitarian law, and international standards of justice.
The attack which resulted in the deaths of three UN peacekeepers puts into focus the grim security environment in Mali. The country has been in a state of conflict since 2012, and the situation has been further exacerbated by the presence of extremist groups. The attack is a reminder of the ongoing security risks faced by the people of Mali, and serves to reiterate the need for all stakeholders involved to recommit to the peace process.
The investigation into the attack is ongoing, and the international community has called for its findings to be brought to the attention of the UN Security Council for further action. At this stage, more than ever, it is essential that proactive and effective solutions are implemented in order to bring an end to the conflict and ensure the security and safety of all the citizens of Mali.
