Learning the lessons of France’s Sahel mission

Outlet: Arab News

Language: English

Abstract: France's withdrawal from the Sahel marks the end of a military-centered strategy that prioritized security over development, ultimately leading to a misalignment with regional needs and a deterioration of France's standing. The shift toward security-first interventions neglected underlying socioeconomic issues and fostered anti-French sentiment, paving the way for the emergence of alternative partnerships with players like Russia. Despite attempts at civil-military coordination through initiatives like the Sahel Alliance, development aid remained disproportionately low, highlighting a discrepancy between stated objectives and resource allocation. Moving forward, a recalibration of strategy is crucial, prioritizing the welfare of Sahelian populations and addressing root causes of instability to achieve lasting peace and prosperity in the region.

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