Abuse reports to raise distrust of Sahel peacekeepers

Significance

MINUSMA has been embroiled in a controversy concerning the presence of a peacekeepers’ camp in the northern Malian town of Aguelhok, where some residents claim that the peacekeepers (particularly Chadian soldiers) have committed human rights violations.

Impacts

• The information war surrounding the MINUSMA camp in Aguelhok highlights the role of social media in conflict.
• The UN, France and other external actors are increasingly concerned about disinformation in the Sahel.
• Despite a record of domestic represssion, Chad takes a more nuanced posture abroad and will sometimes hold soldiers accountable for abuses.