Mali: Government extends state of emergency until October 2020 /update 1

Event

The Council of Ministers announced on Wednesday, October 18, that the current state of emergency will be extended for another year. This is the third extension of the state of emergency, which will now expire on October 31, 2020. According to a statement from the Council of Ministers, the extension was approved to “strengthen the operational capacities of the administrative and judicial authorities, armed forces and security forces” to deal with current threats.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite the presence of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world.

Advice

Due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevalent in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.

The security environment in Mali remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.