The Conflict in Mali: Causes, Actors, and Challenges

Abstract

The Republic of Mali, a resource-rich yet conflict-ridden nation in the Sahel, has faced persistent instability since its independence in 1960. Characterized by ethnic diversity, Mali has been plagued by poor governance, armed insurgencies, religious extremism, and climate hazards, ranking 154th in the 2024 Global Peace Index. Historical grievances, particularly among the Tuareg in the north, have fueled recurrent violence, exacerbated by the involvement of jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and foreign actors such as France, the UN, and Russia’s Wagner Group. Despite international interventions, including peace agreements and counterterrorism efforts, Mali remains trapped in a cycle of violence, with severe humanitarian consequences: millions face food insecurity, displacement, and human rights abuses. This essay examines the interconnected roles of local, regional, and international stakeholders in perpetuating the conflict, highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach to address root causes, rebuild governance, and foster sustainable peace through coordinated humanitarian, security, and developmental efforts.