Situation in Mali is gradually improving

 UN peacekeepers from Senegal patrol the town of Mopti in central Mali. (July 2019) UN peacekeepers from Senegal patrol the town of Mopti in central Mali. (July 2019) MINUSMA/Gema Cortes

Despite fragile situation, steps are taken to restore peace and stability in Mali

In a country where conflicts and violence are a part of everyday life, the path towards peace and security is ridden with numerous obstacles.

In fact, although a hope for the change in living conditions is based on the 2015 Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation signed in Mali, the country remains in fragile condition which does not allow for fast progression.

The Security Council heard from Mr Mahamat Saleh Annadif, Special Representative and head of the UN Mission to the country (MINUSMA) that the situation in Mali is very complex. On one hand, the country is striving to restore peace and stability and endeavours to accelerate the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration . On the other hand, Mr Saleh Annadif noted recent attacks near the Burkina Faso border and the death of a MINUSMA ‘blue helmet’ and wounding of another while reiterating that the slow pace of developments in the country is discouraging.

It is crucial to encourage and support processes leading to establishment of peace in the country. Last September, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta informed that Mali would prepare to hold a national dialogue to strengthen democracy. Its commencement was confirmed by Mr Saleh Annadif on Monday 7 October. Reaching a national level discussion would mean facing the causes of the country’s political and social issues as well as giving the chance to the population to be included in the peace process. Mr Saleh Annadif also informed that in November a workshop on the inclusion of women in the peace process will be held by MINUSMA and UN Women.

 

To read more, please visit:

https://www.un.org/press/en/2019/sc13981.doc.htm

https://africa.cgtn.com/2019/10/08/un-envoy-in-mali-says-progress-made-towards-peace-and-security/

https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/10/1048802

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