MALI
In recent years, Mali’s policies and politics have been grounded in the conflicts surrounding the Jihadist insurgencies in the northern region of the country, Azawad. With coups d’état in 2012, 2020, and 2021 and controversial elections, the Malian population is in the background of policymaking and power transitions.
International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).
Editor’s Note
When the 2020 coup broke out in Mali, a strange feeling of satisfaction erupted throughout West Africa. Referring to Keita as unpopular would be an understatement; years of French military intervention and ongoing violence had enraged the Malian population. Military leaders surfed on this wave of rage, receiving popular support. After all, it is hard to think about democracy when the Al-Qaeda is at your doorstep. Looking back, it seemed obvious that an unprepared military junta would lead to more violence and authoritarianism, but the anti-France and anti-neocolonialism slogans were catchy. Some still argue that there are no rules in the fight against neocolonialism and that authoritarianism is a fair price to pay. I say: pick your poison.
