France's African Shadow
With France in revolt, its former colonies are too. In West Africa’s ‘coup belt’, leaders talk of sovereignty but neocolonialism is proving hard to avoid.
TL;DR
- A student movement protesting poor conditions in French colonies spread to France, highlighting sentiments against the colonizer.
- Niger's Prime Minister declared the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) on an 'irreversible process towards sovereignty,' rejecting French influence.
- The AES, formed in 2023 by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, has invited Russian troops to help combat militants.
- The US is also increasing engagement in the region, seeking to counter Russian influence and secure its own interests.
- Historically, these nations inherited states with profound economic dependence and limited territorial control, facing internal tensions and persistent questions of sovereignty.
- The 2011 Libyan civil war and subsequent instability significantly impacted the region, contributing to the rise of militant groups and military coups.
- Despite expelling French influence, the AES states are now grappling with the challenges of Russian power and American interest, facing difficulties in achieving true sovereignty.
- While seeking self-reliance, the AES states are heavily reliant on foreign military support, weakening their hand in negotiations and state-building.