MALI; The UN peacekeeping mission in Mali has withdrawn from the town of Ber

By Edwin -

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali, known as MINUSMA, has pulled out of the town of Ber due to worsening security conditions. This withdrawal, announced on August 14, 2023, follows a series of attacks on MINUSMA peacekeepers in the region.


In recent times, Ber has turned into a focal point of violence. In May 2023, assailants targeted a MINUSMA convoy, resulting in the deaths of two peacekeepers. In June 2023, another peacekeeper lost their life during an attack on a Ber camp. The situation escalated in July 2023 when two more MINUSMA peacekeepers were killed during a patrol attack in the area.

The deteriorating security situation in Ber has severely hampered MINUSMA's operations within the town. The mission has had to curtail its movements and activities and has increasingly faced hostile encounters from armed factions.

MINUSMA's exit from Ber constitutes a significant setback for Mali's peace efforts. Positioned on the main route between the capital, Bamako, and the northern city of Gao, the town's loss will impede MINUSMA's ability to oversee security conditions in the northern region and assist the Malian government in its endeavors to counter the insurgency.

This withdrawal underscores the mounting difficulties encountered by the UN's peacekeeping mission in Mali. Despite its presence since 2013, the country's security environment has deteriorated notably in recent years. Armed groups' attacks have escalated against the mission, resulting in numerous casualties.

The withdrawal from Ber highlights the challenging and perilous nature of UN peacekeepers' roles globally. It also underscores the international community's responsibility to continue backing Mali's peace process. Absent international support, the situation in Mali could further degrade.

Beyond security concerns, MINUSMA's departure from Ber raises apprehensions about the humanitarian situation in the town. Ber houses a significant number of internally displaced individuals (IDPs). The withdrawal might lead to escalated violence and instability, potentially exacerbating displacement issues and complicating the delivery of humanitarian aid.

MINUSMA's withdrawal from Ber marks a pivotal development within the Malian crisis. It impedes the peace process and serves as a reminder of the challenges confronting UN peacekeeping missions worldwide. The global community must sustain its support for Mali's peace process while also being prepared to extend humanitarian aid to Ber's residents.

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