The United Nations expressed deep concern on Wednesday regarding the dissolution of civil society organizations in Mali. This follows a period of increasing restrictions on human rights and fundamental freedoms in the military-ruled nation.
A UN spokesperson, Seif Magango, stated in a press release that at least four organizations have been disbanded since December 2023. These organizations reportedly focused on good governance, elections, and opposition activities.
“We urge the transitional authorities to allow the dissolved organizations to resume their essential work,” Magango emphasized. He further stressed the importance of state authorities protecting civic space and upholding fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, association, and assembly.
This development comes after the ruling junta in Mali announced the dissolution of the CMAS group earlier this month. CMAS is a group known for supporting Imam Mahmoud Dicko, a prominent religious figure and vocal critic of the current regime. Dicko initially backed the leaders of a 2020 coup but later distanced himself, becoming a strong voice of dissent.
Mali has faced significant challenges since 2012, battling violence from groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, alongside self-proclaimed self-defense forces and banditry. The country has been under military rule since 2020 following back-to-back coups. This political instability has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian and security crisis.
