The Withdrawal of Minusma from Mali: Managing Complex Strategic and Logistical Challenges

In recent months, the drawdown of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (Minusma) has proved to be a major challenge. The Malian government's urgent request for Minusma to leave the country by the end of the year has triggered a series of disagreements, highlighting the scale of the strategic and logistical challenges facing the UN organization. Managing disagreements with the Malian government Friction between Minusma and the Malian government has been exacerbated by the withdrawal of troops from strategic positions, particularly in Kidal. It is important to note that Kidal is a key region in the Malian conflict, with territorial claims by rebel groups. This situation has created a climate of tension which is having repercussions on the withdrawal process. Logistical obstacles to be overcome The withdrawal of the Minusma requires the repatriation of equipment and personnel in a country where logistical infrastructures are often limited. Hundreds of trucks are currently stuck in the Gao region due to bureaucratic and security obstacles. Flight authorizations to secure convoys are frequently refused, further complicating the task. Security concerns Mali was the scene of violent clashes between the Malian army and rebel groups, which had a direct impact on Minusma's security. The security situation has deteriorated, forcing the mission to accelerate its withdrawal to guarantee the safety of its personnel. This deterioration is all the more worrying given Mali's internal power struggles. The Kidal dilemma Kidal is a highly symbolic and strategic town in the Malian conflict. The handover of this region to the Malian army is scheduled for the end of November, but it remains a delicate issue. The Malian authorities want to take it back, while rebel groups continue claiming to the territory. Kidal represents a potentially explosive flashpoint in the Minusma withdrawal. Challenges relating to Minusma's reconstituted armed forces battalions (Baftar) The Minusma set up these battalions, made up of regular army soldiers and former rebels, as part of the 2015 peace agreement. Managing them has been an additional challenge, with disagreements over their role and their withdrawal from outposts. Crucially, these disagreements are linked to the complex realities of Mali's peace process. In brief, the withdrawal of Minusma from Mali is a delicate undertaking that requires careful management, given the country's multidimensional context. The strategic and operational stakes are many, and our team is mobilized to help you analyze, understand and anticipate these challenges in an effective and balanced way.