Understanding the violent attacks in Central Mali

What do we know about Mali’s extreme violence?

Since 2012, the emerging al-Qaeda group has terrorized and destabilized the country’s economy, infrastructure, political system, peace, and is dubbed the ‘worst’ inhabiting the UN Peacekeepers.

According to the UN, it is among the most dangerous nations to serve as a UN peacekeeper, as many killings are aimed at UN personnel.

During the weekend’s attack, a UN peacekeeper was the casualty of an improvised explosive device, resulting in his death. The organization says more than 270 peacekeepers have so far died. According to El-Ghassim Wane, the UN head of missions in Mali, the attacks on peacekeepers could amount to war crimes and lead to sanctions.

The central region’s education system is currently under threat. In the villages Diaweli and Dessagou, where the attacks took place, schools are closed due to poor levels of security.

Children have been directly affected academically due to displacement caused by the continuous attacks. The interim government that took power in a coup seems unable to control the situation as more killings are reported in different parts of the country.

The Malian soldiers have been accused of executing civilians and other abuses such as rape and sexual assault. However, no specific charges have been issued.

On Sunday, the Mali military claimed to have killed more than 200 Islamist militants in one month to suppress its control efforts. However, the public has shown little confidence in its efforts to curb the situation.

What has been the international response?

The country could soon be left vulnerable as a section of French troops have been withdrawn in the Menaka region.

This may create a gap that militia groups could use to target civilians and the military. According to local reports, the French could withdraw its entire troop soon.

On Sunday, the US State Department Spokesperson Mr. Ned Price said that they were following the situation and that conflicting reports need to be addressed to ensure the stability of the government and the country at large.

Similarly, the European Union has imposed sanctions on the Wagner Group, accusing the organization of secretly having operations in the country.

In the long run, let’s hope for peace in the country soon.