In a recent development in the dynamics of the G5 Sahel, Mauritania and Chad have signaled their determination to continue regional efforts despite the withdrawals of Niger and Burkina Faso, following the previously announced exit of Mali. The joint statement released by Presidents Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani (Mauritania) and Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno (Chad) underlines their commitment to addressing regional challenges. The statement, disclosed through a joint press release, recognizes the abandonment of Niger and Burkina Faso from the G5 Sahel and underlines the willingness of Mauritania and Chad to pursue the objectives of the region. In response to this sovereign decision of the sister republics of Burkina Faso and Niger, Nouakchott and N’Djamena expressed gratitude to the technical and financial partners for their continued commitment to the region. In the statement, the two presidents draw attention to the need to address the asymmetric and cross-border warfare that has affected the subregion for more than a decade. Citing the context of real concerns and prolonged violence, the presidents highlight that the G5 Sahel was created in 2014 to address security and development challenges, uniting the brotherly and friendly countries of Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Chad. The republics of Mauritania and Chad highlight the strategic structure of the G5 Sahel, based on security, stability, civil protection and economic and social development. The statement recalls the creation of the Joint Force, the cross-border cooperation program and the establishment of entities such as the Regional Anti-Terrorism Training Center and the Defense College. After the withdrawal of Mali in 2022 and the subsequent decisions of Burkina Faso and Niger in December 2023, the two presidents reiterate their efforts to overcome the crisis, but acknowledge and respect the sovereign decision of the sister republics. Nonetheless, they emphasize continued commitment to the ideals of African regional integration and the goals of the G5 Sahel. Finally, the statement also reflects on the possibility of dissolving the G5 Sahel, as indicated in Article 20 of the Convention on the Creation of the G5 Sahel. This article specifies that the G5 Sahel can be dissolved at the request of at least three members. This development calls to mind the historical and current complexity of colonialism in the Sahel, calling attention to crucial questions of regional autonomy and cooperation. In this delicate context, the emergence of terrorism and jihadist extremism adds a critical layer to the challenges faced by the Sahel region. Armed terrorist groups, operating asymmetrically and across borders, threaten the security and stability of Mauritania and Chad, as well as the other members of the G5 Sahel. The creation of the Joint Force, mentioned in the statement, highlights joint efforts to directly address this danger, but the persistence of terrorism requires a continued and coordinated response. The historical context of colonialism in the Sahel has shaped current dynamics, influencing the political and economic stability of the region. Colonialism has often left legacies of arbitrary borders and socioeconomic inequalities, which can contribute to internal tensions. The analysis of these elements is crucial to fully understand current challenges and seek sustainable solutions. In addition, post-colonialism has brought about a number of challenges, including managing resources and building stable institutions. Foreign interference, whether from Western powers or global players such as China and multinationals, can further influence the situation. Geopolitical dynamics and resource competitions can complicate regional cooperation efforts, adding another layer of complexity. The recognition of the possibility of dissolving the G5 Sahel, as indicated in Article 20 of the Convention, highlights the need to reflect on the future of regional cooperation. Addressing these challenges will require strategic vision and long-term commitment from the countries involved, regional partners and the international community as a whole.
