Month: July 2026

Bamako and Rabat are set to elevate their bilateral ties to new heights as Mali prepares to host the fourth session of the Grande Commission mixte de coopération from July 21 to 24, 2026. This landmark gathering, announced by Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, marks a pivotal moment in strengthening the strategic alliance between the two nations. Over four intensive days, high-ranking government officials, sector specialists, and business leaders will convene to assess progress on existing initiatives and chart a roadmap for future collaboration. The event underscores the commitment of both governments to deepen their partnership across key development sectors. The agenda is structured in phases: July 21–22: Expert-level discussions to review ongoing pr...

Niger’s human rights crisis deepens under military leadership As Niger approaches the third anniversary of the July 26 coup, a leading rights organization warns of an intensified crackdown on dissent and democratic freedoms. The situation has deteriorated sharply since the military takeover led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, according to a damning report released this week. Human rights advocates highlight systematic efforts to dismantle checks and balances, suppress opposition voices and expand authoritarian control. Erosion of democratic institutions and civic freedoms The report documents a deliberate strategy to centralize power by dissolving political parties, suspending independent unions and restricting the work of civil society organizations. Journalists have face...

Washington Examines Possible Action to Counter JNIMThe Trump administration is weighing the possibility of launching a military operation against the Groupe de soutien à l’islam et aux musulmans (JNIM), a militant group affiliated with Al-Qaïda and active in Mali, according to several US officials.While some officials within the administration support this course of action, others are skeptical about its feasibility, The Washington Post reported on Tuesday.One key proponent of military intervention is Sebastian Gorka, a senior adviser at the National Security Council who has long argued that a tough stance against terrorism is necessary to prevent further attacks.A US official declined to confirm or deny reports of planned strikes against JNIM but acknowledged that Washington was encouragi...