The extension of the mandate to support the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) has now been extended until 31 January 2017 with the approval of the German Bundestag. To date the ceiling on German troops was 150; as of February 2016 up to 650 soldiers could be deployed. 

The focus of Germany’s engagement in the Sahel is to bring stability to Mali. This has impacts on the situation in the Sahel as a whole, in Libya and in neighbouring countries in the region.

Terrorism, crime and impoverishment can also impact strongly on Europe in the medium term. This is particularly true in the north of Mali, since this part of the country is an important transit region for migrants and asylum-seekers from the African continent.

Top priority is to bring peace to the region

The parties to the conflict in Mali signed a peace agreement on 15 May and 20 June 2015, making an important step in moves to stabilise the country in the long term. It reflects the successful initiation of the peace process, which has the support of the parties to the conflict. The implementation of the peace agreement will be crucially important to bring lasting peace to northern Mali in particular.

Germany is already playing an important part. Its extensive engagement in development cooperation and the political support it has provided for the peace process are major elements in its overall support. The German government is also providing funding for crisis prevention measures as well as delivering humanitarian aid.

United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali

The core tasks of MINUMSA include supporting the ceasefire agreements and confidence-building measures with the parties to the conflict. The national political dialogue and national reconciliation are also to be fostered.

The authority of the state must be restored throughout the country. It is important to rebuild the Malian security sector to ensure that human rights are respected.

Relieving the burden on European partners

Germany’s expanded contribution will replace some of the capabilities hitherto provided by the Netherlands, although the Netherlands engagement in Mali will continue.

In the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris, France was assured of the maximum possible support from Germany. By significantly increasing its contribution to the MINUSMA mission in Mali, Germany is allowing France greater scope for its engagement in Africa.

Bundeswehr’s duties will change

The military contribution that Germany has hitherto made to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali is to be continued. It provides for human resources to be deployed in the staff units of the mission and for liaison officers. Germany also provides tactical air transport capabilities and mid-air refuelling services. This was originally decided in order to support the French forces authorised by United Nations Security Council resolutions. The current ceiling of 150 soldiers in this context will remain unchanged and will be part of the new mandate.

In addition to this, the German government intends as of February 2016 to deploy a larger mixed reconnaissance company. This will provide capabilities urgently needed by the United Nations.

In addition some forces are to be assigned to protect specific sites, while others will provide emergency, medical and logistics services as well as command support. The German contingent in the staff units of the mission in Bamako and Gao will also be increased. This will require up to 500 more soldiers. A total of up to 650 soldiers are to be deployed as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali.

Police component

In addition to the military component, MINUSMA has a civilian component. Here too Germany is actively engaged. The number of German police officers involved in the mission in Mali was raised in October 2015 by 10 to a total of 20.

The German government enhanced its contribution to the police component of MINUSMA in terms of quality as well as quantity. An additional four- to six-strong team of specialists was deployed to train the local police force. The team comprises specialists in organised crime, cross-border crime and anti-terror activities.