Wagner Group and Mali Army Allegations
One year after the United Nations Stabilisation Mission (Minusma) left Mali, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Malian army and its Russian ally, the Wagner Group, of committing widespread atrocities.
According to the report, the army and Wagner mercenaries have been implicated in the deliberate killings of at least 32 civilians and the destruction of over 100 homes since May.
The allegations extend beyond the Malian forces. HRW reported, “Armed Islamist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State summarily executed 47 civilians and displaced thousands since June.” 
The Struggle for Accountability
The Malian government has not responded to these grave findings. HRW claims this silence fosters impunity.
“Failure to hold members of the security forces, Wagner Group, and Islamist armed groups accountable has paved the way for further atrocities,” HRW emphasized.
Satellite Evidence and Eyewitness Accounts
The HRW investigation drew from interviews with 47 witnesses, satellite imagery, and verified photos and videos.
Senior Sahel researcher Ilaria Allegrozzi expressed deep concern, stating, “Since Minusma left Mali a year ago, it has been extremely difficult to get comprehensive information on abuses, and we fear the situation may be worse than reported.”
Islamist Violence and Its Toll
Jihadist violence has surged following Minusma’s departure, particularly in northern and central Mali.
Armed groups such as the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) continue to target civilians, exacerbating Mali’s fragile security situation.
Minusma’s Exit and Mali’s Shift Toward Russia
Minusma’s decade-long mission ended in December 2023 at the junta’s insistence. The ruling junta, which seized power through coups in 2020 and 2021, has since pivoted away from France, its former colonial ruler, and toward Russia for military and political aid.
What are the long-term consequences of Minusma’s withdrawal for Mali’s civilians? Is justice possible in the absence of accountability?
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