A Malian soldier patrols the perimeter of the building where the military delegation from Bamako is meeting with the Governor in Kidal, North of Mali. (Photo: MINUSMA/Marco Dormino)
Most illicit markets in Mali are, in fact, part of an informal economy run by communities seeking economic opportunities in a highly insecure environment. Nevertheless, stabilization efforts mistakenly view them as linked to organized crime or terrorist activities. Militarized responses have added to, not mitigated, instability in the region. Interventions should better support Malian communities and help them mitigate the negative impact of criminal agendas.
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Security Topics: Combating Organized Crime