Chad: a historic break with France and a claim for sovereignty

Chad has decided to abrogate the defense and security agreement that bound it to France, a decision that will not fail to provoke reactions on the national and international level. If we thought that the military collaboration between Paris and Ndjamena was a great love story, now a breath of fresh air, or challenge, is blowing on this partnership. But what is behind this rupture?

A Chad that reclaims its rights

For many, this decision represents a historic turning point for Chad, a country that for decades has often been seen as a satellite of French policy in Africa. The lack of real prospects for self-determination and military dependence have caused frustration and anger among the population. The defense agreement, signed in 2015, would have been ideal for ensuring the country’s security against terrorist threats, but over the years it has become a symbol of an unequal relationship, in which French interests predominated. With this abrogation, the Chadian government appears to be taking control of its narrative and claiming its right to sovereignty.

Reactions: between euphoria and worry

Immediately after the announcement, voices were raised, expressing both jubilation and concern. On the one hand, nationalists, chanting slogans and waving flags, hailed the decision as a victory over a former colonial power. On the other, analysts did not hide their fears about security—a crucial issue in such a volatile region. The absence of French military support could make Chad more vulnerable to armed groups that find fertile ground in the Sahel. The challenge will be to strengthen internal capacities while preventing the country from plunging into anarchy.

A new page in Chadian history?

This abrogation of the agreement with France is not simply an isolated event, but part of a broader trend of contestation of postcolonial relations between Africa and the West. Chad is not alone, as many African countries are beginning to redefine their alliances and seek new partnerships on the international stage. China, Russia, and other emerging powers are trying to gain a foothold in Chad and Africa. The next steps for the Chadian government will be to manage this strategic transition while easing internal tensions and ensuring that, this time around, the struggle for sovereignty translates into concrete results for the population.