Bamako: The Sahel region of Africa is undergoing significant geopolitical changes, described by its new leaders as a 'silent revolution' against the remnants of colonialism and Western influence. European capitals, particularly Paris, perceive these changes as a direct challenge to a long-standing system of influence.
According to Libyan News Agency, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are at the forefront of these transformations, led by transitional presidents with military backgrounds: Assimi Gota in Mali, Ibrahim Traor© in Burkina Faso, and Abdourahmane Tchiani in Niger. Over the last three years, these nations have dismantled several instruments of traditional French influence, including military bases, security agreements, and political narratives.
What started as a series of military coups between 2020 and 2023 has evolved into a transnational political project. This culminated in the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which aims to serve as an alternative to traditional regional frameworks like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Sahel leaders accuse ECOWAS of being a "tool of Western pressure." Beyond security cooperation, the new alliance aims for joint defense coordination, a unified foreign policy, and a discourse rejecting Western control.
One of the most symbolic shifts is the intention to abandon the CFA franc, which has been historically linked to the French treasury and the euro. While there is no official timeline for launching a unified currency for the Sahel countries, the project is reportedly underway. However, economic experts warn of challenges such as monetary instability and financial isolation. New Sahel leaders argue that "political independence is incomplete without monetary sovereignty."
The idea of a unified passport for the Sahel countries is also under discussion, reflecting ambitions that extend beyond economics to redefining political identity. This project could enhance freedom of movement and create a new internal market, though it faces challenges like security issues, weak administrative structures, and potential international recognition hurdles.
For France, these developments represent its most significant strategic setback in Africa since the 1960s. Paris has lost its military foothold in Mali and Niger, along with its traditional political influence. The European Union is concerned about the potential expansion of Russian and Chinese influence, unraveling security partnerships, and migration and energy repercussions. Western research centers are discussing the failure of the Western intervention model in the Sahel, particularly after years of military operations without achieving stability.
Observers note that the Sahel's actions align with broader global shifts, including the decline of Western hegemony and the rise of alternative powers like Russia and China. These countries are attempting to leverage this shift through new security partnerships and diversified economic relations. However, internal challenges such as fragile state institutions, corruption, and ethnic divisions could hinder the realization of political aspirations unless addressed through reforms.
While the Sahel countries are opening up to new partners like Russia and China, the logic of self-interest remains, including resource exploitation. Thus, managing these partnerships carefully is crucial to avoid replacing one form of dependency with another.
The Sahel is not witnessing an immediate end to French influence nor the certain birth of an integrated alternative system. Instead, it is navigating a transitional phase, with success dependent on translating sovereignty discourse into effective institutions and improved living conditions. Failure could exacerbate existing crises, but the Sahel is now an active player seeking to redefine its international role.