STRATEGIC COMPETITION BETWEEN RUSSIA AND FRANCE IN THE SAHEL AND ITS REPERCUSSION ON THE REGION’S STABILITY: A FOCUS ON MALI, NIGER, AND BURKINA FASO

Abstract

This thesis explores the strategic competition between Russia and France in the Sahel region, particularly focusing on Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. It analyzes how this rivalry affects regional stability, governance, and security. The Sahel’s history of powerful empires and colonial influence highlights its geopolitical significance and resource wealth. France aims to maintain its influence over its former colonies, while Russia seeks to counter Western dominance by re-establishing alliances and military partnerships. This competition destabilizes the region, intensifies state fragility, fuels conflicts, and deepens socio-political divisions, ultimately creating complex security dilemmas. This research examines how external power interventions undermine local governance and impede regional cooperation and collaboration, leading to increased violence. France and Russia compete for influence, escalating political tensions and obstructing efforts for collective security. Realism, state fragility, and foreign military intervention theories help analyze the Franco–Russian rivalry as a global power strategy that increases local instability and perpetuates the cycle of violence. The findings show that France and Russia’s strategic interests create dependency and exacerbate regional security conflicts. The recommendations suggest transitioning to governance led by African nations to reduce reliance on foreign interventions and promote regional autonomy and resilience.