Qatar: New ally of Sahelian juntas seeking international recognition

Sahelian juntas, seeking international recognition and strategic support, are now turning to Qatar as a new ally. This decision, marked by complex political issues and a desire to emerge from diplomatic exile, raises questions about the direction these military governments will take.

Qatar, the new intermediary in the Sahel

Known for its role as a mediator in numerous conflicts, Qatar has emerged as a partner of choice for Sahelian juntas. Indeed, as the international community strives to isolate these new leaders, Qatari Prince Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has already received military representatives from countries such as Mali and Burkina Faso. This proactive approach could well be a sign of a strategic rapprochement in the face of the growing isolation these countries face.

Exit strategies from exile

The quest for support, whether in terms of investment or military backing, is taking on an urgent dimension as the juntas seek to stabilize their respective regimes. By turning to Qatar, they could hope to obtain not only funding, but also diplomatic cover that could mitigate sanctions imposed by other international powers. This demonstrates the extent to which each actor seeks to take advantage of precarious situations to consolidate their influence.

A risky bet for the region

However, this strategy raises the question of the sustainability of Qatar's approach in the Sahel. Engaging with a country already criticized for its human rights practices and its support for disputed groups could well exacerbate the situation. Populations, already immersed in a fragile daily life, risk paying a high price for a short-term policy without a clear vision for the future. Even if Qatar succeeds in establishing a dialogue, it does not guarantee a radical change in the governance practices of juntas, often perceived as repressive and unstable.

Finally, as the Sahelian juntas seek to reposition their image on the international stage, it will be crucial to observe whether this shift towards Qatar will resolve the persistent crises or, on the contrary, whether it will only add a layer of complexity to an already explosive situation.