Escalating Clashes in Mali Raise Concerns as UN Peacekeepers Withdraw
The United Nations is expressing deep concern over the increasing clashes in northern and eastern parts of Mali as UN peacekeepers continue their withdrawal from the country. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has highlighted escalating tensions and clashes in regions such as Timbuktu, Gao, and Menaka.
According to OCHA, aid agencies have provided assistance to 1.2 million people in Mali this year, but this is only a fraction of the 9 million people in need. The agencies require safe and unimpeded access to the affected communities in order to scale up their humanitarian response. Additionally, they are in urgent need of additional resources, including logistics and mine action activities, to ensure critical enabling services are in place for humanitarian action.
Despite the challenging security environment, the peacekeepers in Mali are continuing their drawdown and withdrawal, in line with Security Council Resolution 2690, with plans to complete the process by the end of the year. However, recent clashes in regions such as Gao, Kidal, and Timbuktu have disrupted the mission’s withdrawal plans.
While contingency plans are in place in case the security situation deteriorates further, the mission is making efforts to proceed with its safe and orderly drawdown and withdrawal. Certain areas, including Ogossagou, Ber, Gundam, and Menaka, have already been vacated and handed over to the Malian authorities. From October 1 onwards, the mission will focus on using its remaining capacities for the withdrawal process.
It is important to note that with the mission no longer authorized and lacking means and capacities to respond to threats against civilians or contribute to the safe delivery of humanitarian goods and services, the security situation could have severe implications.
In terms of humanitarian aid, the 2023 response plan for Mali, requiring $752 million, is currently only 22 percent funded. Various critical sectors, including food security, health, and water, sanitation, and hygiene, are facing significant funding gaps.
The situation in Mali necessitates a coordinated global effort to ensure the protection and well-being of the civilian population. As clashes escalate and UN peacekeepers withdraw, it is crucial for the international community to provide the necessary support, both financially and logistically, to address the humanitarian needs and maintain stability in the region.
