Alliance des États du Sahel

The Alliance des États du Sahel (AES), comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, is a regional bloc formed after military coups in each nation. It's newsworthy due to concerns about human rights, authoritarian tendencies, and growing Russian influence. Recent events include a UN human rights expert reporting on an 'authoritarian escalation' in Mali, covering a period up to November 2025, highlighting political, civic, and security issues. Additionally, there are protests in Niger against European demands for the release of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, indicating resistance to external pressure. Investigations suggest Russian actors, linked to the late Yevgeny Prigozhin, have been working to strengthen and expand the AES, raising questions about the alliance's geopolitical alignment and long-term stability. The AES's actions and international relationships are significant due to their impact on regional security, human rights, and the broader geopolitical landscape of the Sahel.