This document analyzes the resurgence of military coups in the central Sahel, notably in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, as well as the resulting democratic challenges. Since 2012, these countries have experienced several overthrows of power, often seen as responses to the security and institutional weaknesses of the incumbent governments. The military transitions that follow typically extend the suspension of democratic rights and cast uncertainty over a return to constitutional order. Analyses of these transitional periods highlight the limited efforts to restore democratic governance, with delayed elections and increasing restrictions on civil freedom and the media.

State, Security

In response to their withdrawal from ECOWAS, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger created the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) with the goal of forming a confederation. This article places the initiative in historical context, recalling failed attempts at territorial federations in West Africa (like the OCRS and the Mali Federation). It examines the logistical and administrative challenges of governing such a vast, landlocked territory, and highlights the increased reliance on Russia (notably the Wagner Group) for security. The article raises concerns about a new form of geopolitical dependency. It concludes that the AES does not represent a genuine break but rather a repetition of unresolved post-independence issues: geographic isolation, internal tensions, ungovernability, and fragile regional integration.

State, Sovereignty, Diplomacy