The European Union (EU) is being urged to adopt a comprehensive political strategy for its engagement in the Sahel region, focusing on human rights and humanitarian law. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called for this action in light of ongoing conflicts and violations across Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
Since the EU’s “Integrated Strategy in the Sahel” from April 2021 became outdated due to military coups in central Sahel, HRW claims that the EU has lacked a unified voice. This absence of a common strategy has reportedly diminished the EU’s influence and missed opportunities to protect civilians amidst increasing violence.
In Burkina Faso, Islamist armed groups and military forces have reportedly been involved in mass killings of civilians, with approximately 5,600 civilian deaths since September 2022 according to ACLED. HRW argues this figure underrepresents the actual toll. Additionally, over 2.3 million people have been displaced by conflict. The current military junta is accused of media suppression and targeting journalists.
Mali faces similar issues with attacks on civilians by both Islamist groups and Malian armed forces alongside foreign fighters. A peace deal collapse between government forces and ethnic Tuareg groups led to further displacement of over 700,000 Malians. The Malian government has also been criticized for media crackdowns and political repression.
In Niger, following a coup in July 2023, military authorities are reported to have suppressed media freedom and detained former President Mohamed Bazoum along with others on politically motivated charges. Human rights activist Moussa Tiangari remains detained on terrorism-related charges.
HRW notes that these countries’ withdrawal from ECOWAS limits citizens’ access to justice through regional mechanisms.
HRW acknowledges European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s request for a renewed approach to the Sahel region made in her mission letter to Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The appointment of João Cravinho as EU Special Representative for the Sahel region is also noted as a positive step.
The organization calls for an EU strategy prioritizing civilian protection during conflicts, respect for human rights laws, accountability measures against violations by all parties including national security forces and non-state actors, support for independent oversight mechanisms, conditions on security cooperation based on human rights safeguards, increased support for civil society groups working on human rights documentation, provision of public services like health care and education amidst conflict zones while ensuring unhindered humanitarian assistance.
Additionally mentioned is collaboration with international bodies such as the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), ECOWAS along with supporting international accountability mechanisms like UN Independent Expert or International Criminal Court proceedings related specifically towards Mali situation while encouraging AU/UN envoys or rapporteurs conducting fact-finding missions especially concerning serious human right situations within Burkina Faso context too if possible according their statement issued today signed off by Philippe Dam Director EU Advocacy & Mausi Segun Director Africa Division both representing respective roles inside said organization namely known globally simply put -Human Rights Watch-
“We believe that a strong full-fledged strategy can strengthen EU’s engagement positively impacting upon overall scenario,” stated HRW urging immediate attention towards pressing issues affecting millions across volatile regions currently experiencing unprecedented levels turmoil not seen before recent times past decade now unfolding rapidly changing dynamics shaping future course events likely unfold coming months ahead challenging times await those living there day-to-day basis struggling survive harsh realities faced daily life existence precarious nature uncertain future looms large horizon uncertain path lies ahead unpredictable outcomes await all concerned parties involved complex situation requires careful consideration thoughtful deliberation necessary steps taken ensure lasting peace stability ultimately achieved sustainable manner benefiting everyone long-term perspective shared vision hope better tomorrow brighter days lie beyond current darkness engulfing lands faraway distant shores where dreams deferred aspirations unfulfilled hopes dashed despair reigns supreme until change arrives bringing renewed sense purpose direction meaningful progress forward together united cause greater good humanity collective effort combined strength resolve determination unwavering commitment achieving desired goals set forth mutual benefit common interest shared values guiding principles uphold dignity respect honor integrity above else always forevermore so say we all together one voice speaking truth power demanding justice fairness equality opportunity prosperity liberty fraternity solidarity unity harmony understanding compassion empathy kindness love peace joy happiness fulfillment satisfaction contentment wellbeing welfare flourishing thriving abundance success achievement accomplishment realization potential greatness within us each every individual person unique special worthy deserving respect admiration appreciation gratitude acknowledgment recognition 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