2023-08-10 00:30:59
A feeling of potential resurgence is gaining traction in West Africa. However, the apprehension arises that neocolonial nations, including the situation in the Niger, can replicate the ruthless tactics previously adopted by Al-Qaeda. This fear has been confirmed by historical evidence, as demonstrated by the episode of the overthrow of Gaddafi.
Particularly relevant are the recent statements by Western leaders in relation to Niger. These statements seem to suggest that the activism of the West is not driven by humanitarian motives or the preservation of democracybut by safeguarding its privileges in an area that is gradually losing the French presence.
Although cynical, the method frequently used by the West to maintain its influence and exploit several African nations is “controlled destabilization”. In line with this, a potential military intervention would follow the same established methodology.
Controlled destabilization
More precisely, the concept of “controlled destabilization” through direct or indirect support of extremist armed factions suggests that some Western nations may have supported rebel movements or internal conflicts in strategic regions in order to have a justification to intervene militarily or exert influence politics. This may be motivated by several factors, including control of natural resources, expanding geopolitical influence, and interest in trade.
The use of the so-called “controlled destabilization” has been discussed by authoritative analysts and journalists, such as for example Patrick Cockburn, well-known British journalist who covered Middle Eastern affairs. Cockburn has raised concerns about the presence of radical factions among the rebels supported during the intervention in Libya. In addition, the writer and researcher Nafeez Ahmed examined the implications of the intervention in Libya, focusing on supporting factions with radical ties within the rebels.
Also the well-known journalist and geopolitical analyst Pepe Escobar addressed the connection between some rebel factions in Libya and radical Islamic groups, raising concerns about radicalisation. Also, the economist and academician Michel Chossudovsky explored the implications of the intervention in Libya and the involvement of radical groups among supported rebels.
Use by Western governments of Islamic Radicals
These are just some of the analysts who have indicated that the intervention in Libya may have had more complex implications than officially announced. They argue that some Western-backed rebel factions had ties to radical Islamic fringes, including groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda. These groups, such as Ansar al-Sharia, have inserted themselves among the rebels and exploited the instability generated by the intervention to promote their radical agendas.
In essence, according to some observers, the idea of a “controlled destabilization” implies that some Western nations have supported rebel groups with ties to radical Islamic fringes in order to undermine the stability of the Gaddafi regime. This could have justified further military interventions or the establishment of geopolitical influences.
Concerning external support for the jihadist terrorist organization Boko Haram, suspicions have also been raised by journalists and analysts. Some of them include Andrew Walkerwell-known British journalist who addressed Boko Haram’s international connections and whether he received training or support from Al-Qaeda-affiliated groups. Also, scholar of Islam and African politics Alex Thurston examined the implications of the evolution and activities of Boko Haram, paying attention to the possible involvement of external elements. Even the expert on Islamic radicalism in Africa, Jacob Zennexamined the links between Boko Haram and international extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and ISIS, emphasizing the possibility of exchanges of training and resources.
As for support for the group, the claims concern several parties, including individuals, extremist groups and sometimes even governments. Suspicions have been raised on the involvement or negligence of the Nigerian government in addressing Boko Haram. Some have argued that the government may have links or connivance with elements of the group. In addition, some analysts and journalists, such as Andrew Walkerraised concerns about the possible connection between the spread of extremism in the region and geopolitical factors, including the involvement of Al-Qaeda-affiliated groups.
Considerations
In summary, considering the entire African continent, it emerges that Western support could actually help maintain and aggravate some conditions. Although the only effective strategy to counter the threat of Islamic radicalism in the long term requires broad reforms, improvements in living conditions and wider political involvement of citizens, there has been no significant progress in the well-being of local populations, despite the influence and enduring presence of nations such as France.
This suggests that conditions of extreme poverty, lack of access to clean water and medical care, together with the lack of decent work opportunities, could be kept deliberately in order to keep many African countries in a state of vulnerability and dependency. Paradoxically, these same conditions constitute the fertile ground for the emergence of radicalisms and armed claims, also providing a “democratic” and “humanitarian” motivation for the Western presence and for armed intervention against hostile governments or those seeking to emancipate themselves from a cumbersome presence . An example are the threats of an armed intervention against the coup plotters, as is the case insistently towards Niger.
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