20 Nov 2017 | 06:56 AM UTC
Mali: Protests expected in Bamako Nov. 20
Sit-in expected outside Libyan Embassy and demonstration at Pyramid of Remembrance in Bamako November 20
Event
A sit-in is expected to be held outside of the Libyan Embassy in central Bamako, followed by a demonstration in the vicinity of the Pyramid of Remembrance on Monday, November 20. The protests are prompted by the release of a report by American broadcaster CNN about the sale of African migrants as slaves in Libya.
Due to the ongoing state of emergency, authorities may ban the sit-in and it is possible that security forces will use force to disperse any gatherings.
Context
The CNN report has incited outrage, instigating a protest in central Paris outside of the Libyan Embassy on 19 November, and condemnation by the African Union (AU). Thousands of Malians are estimated leave the country every month, many of whom find themselves in Algeria and Libya.
On October 1, the government extended the state of emergency, in place since November 2015, until 31 October 2018.
Advice
Individuals in Bamako are advised to monitor the situation and avoid any large gatherings due to the risk of associated violence.
The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
