The Sahel region has witnessed a surge in political instability since 2020, with Mali at the epicenter of these turbulent changes. The country has experienced a series of dramatic shifts, as military factions have displaced democratically elected leaders, raising concerns about the future of governance in the region.
From democratic promises to military rule
The democratic principles once championed by Western powers, particularly through the 1990 La Baule Doctrine, have faced growing skepticism across Africa. Mali, like many of its neighbors, has struggled to balance these external expectations with internal realities. While the push for democracy was initially embraced, it has often led to mismanagement, corruption, and public disillusionment. In response, segments of the population have turned toward alternative governance models, including those described as “illiberal”—prioritizing stability over pluralism.
The rise of anti-Western sentiment
The continent’s growing alignment with the Global South reflects a broader trend of distancing itself from Western influence. Mali has been no exception, as geopolitical tensions escalate and alliances shift. This realignment has emboldened factions that reject traditional democratic frameworks, favoring instead systems that emphasize sovereignty and resistance to external interference. The consequences for Mali’s political landscape remain uncertain, with both domestic and international observers closely monitoring the situation.
