Sweden closes its embassy in Mali

Confronted with the worrying deterioration in the security situation in Mali, the Swedish government has decided to close its embassy in Bamako by the end of 2024.

Stockholm is not disengaging from the Sahel, however.

The decision to close the Swedish embassy in Bamako, a measure that also affects Ouagadougou, is prompted by the worsening security situation and the need to redefine development aid. As a permanent diplomatic presence is no longer considered essential in this context, the closure is planned for the end of 2024. However, the Swedish
authorities assure the Malian government that bilateral links will remain active.

The Swedish embassy in Mali, which opened in 2010, has been a pillar of bilateral relations between the two countries. During this period, Sweden has invested in key areas such as rural development, education
and health.

Between 2016 and 2020, around SEK 240 million (around 16 billion CFA francs) has been invested annually to support various local projects, ranging from improving education and health infrastructure to strengthening food security and resilience in the face of climate change.

These efforts have led to significant progress. In education and health, Sweden has contributed to the construction and renovation of numerous schools and health centres, facilitating access to essential
services for thousands of Malians. At the same time, it has played a decisive role in peacekeeping operations, notably within the UN mission (MINUSMA), which left Mali at Bamako’s request, and in the Takuba operation.

Swedish participation included the deployment of 150 soldiers equipped with helicopters and transport aircraft for rapid reaction missions and support to the Malian security forces. In addition, 215 Swedish soldiers contributed to the UN mission, providing protection and logistical support.

The closure of the embassy could have consequences for Mali. The reduced diplomatic presence could limit the resources available for development and security projects. Nevertheless, Sweden affirms its intention to continue supporting regional initiatives through its new embassy in Dakar, maintaining strong bilateral relations and
contributing to stability in the region.

According to the Swedish authorities, the opening of an embassy in Dakar will enable continued engagement in the region in a more secure and effective manner. Senegal, with its political stability and strong democratic institutions, offers a favourable environment to support Swedish interests and strengthen regional cooperation.

As a regional hub, Dakar will also facilitate interaction with UN agencies and other European countries present in the region.

Norway took a similar decision, closing its embassy in Bamako at the end of 2023 for security reasons. However, among the Scandinavian countries, only Denmark has not yet announced that it will be leaving.

MD/ac/fss/as/APA