A joint security force announced by the ruling juntas of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso aims to combat the escalating extremist violence in the Sahel region. However, analysts have raised concerns about the effectiveness of this initiative due to various challenges.
The top military chief of Niger stated that the joint force would be operational soon to address security challenges in the area. This move comes as the three countries seek a more independent path following a series of coups in the region, with the most recent one occurring in Niger last year.
These nations have already formed a security alliance and turned to Russia for support after cutting military ties with neighboring countries and European nations like France. Despite promises to quell insurgencies post-coups, conflict analysts note that violence has intensified under the new regimes.
The security forces in these countries are stretched thin as they combat jihadi violence in the conflict-hit Sahel region. Analysts emphasize that the success of the security alliance hinges not only on internal resources but also on external support.
Experts highlight the fragility of the regimes, all of which came to power through coups, making them susceptible to further coups. This instability raises doubts about their ability to collaborate effectively on security matters.
In conclusion, the joint security force faces significant hurdles in its mission to address the security challenges in the Sahel region. The success of this initiative will depend on overcoming internal fragility and securing external support.
