The military intervention in northern Mali by French and West African troops has changed the trajectory of what had been a steadily deteriorating security situation. Even so, considerable confusion persists regarding the nature and motivations of the militant groups, the degree of local support they enjoy, and underlying grievances that have fostered instability in northern Mali. These factors have fundamental implications for the course of military operations moving forward and the broader stabilization strategy for this region.

Recognizing the fluidity of events on the ground, the Africa Center for Strategic Studies is convening a pair of expert panels to help clarify the actors and drivers of instability in Mali and the requirements for stabilizing this territory beyond the near-term military intervention. Drawing on lessons from Africa and elsewhere, the panels will highlight priorities for Malian, African, and international actors as they engage this crisis within its broader strategic significance. (To see a PDF invitation, click here.)

Priorities for Stabilizing Northern Mali

Wednesday, February 6, 2013
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

National Defense University