A United Nations expert today welcomed recent steps taken by Mali’s transitional authorities to restore constitutional order but voiced serious concerns about the ongoing security and human rights challenges in the country.
Eduardo González, the Independent Expert on the human rights situation in Mali, commended the decision of President of the Transition, Gen. Assimi Goïta, during the Council of Ministers meeting on November 27, 2024, to ensure the creation of conditions necessary for organizing transparent and peaceful elections. These elections are expected to bring an end to the transition process.
“The forthcoming elections must be free, fair, and peaceful and must meet international standards,” González stated following his visit to the country. He urged the Malian authorities to expedite their efforts to restore constitutional order, stressing the importance of publishing an election timetable as soon as possible. He also called on the international community to support Mali’s efforts, while respecting its sovereignty.
The expert emphasized the critical need for a safe environment conducive to the exercise of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. He warned that without this, the upcoming elections could fail to reflect the true will of the people. González expressed his deep concern over the shrinking civic space in the country.
During his meeting with government authorities, González welcomed the release of 11 political figures on December 5, 2024, and urged the authorities to release all others who remain in detention for similar reasons without delay.
In addition, González praised recent trials in the town of Kayes related to descent-based slavery, highlighting the need for the government to ensure such practices are criminalized by law. He also emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive protection and reparations for the victims.
“Transitional justice is essential to combat impunity and protect victims,” González said. He urged the government to publish the final report of the Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission and to swiftly operationalize its successor institutions to promote national reconciliation.
While in Mali, González also visited male and female prisons in Bamako, where he was briefed on initiatives aimed at modernizing the prison system and preparing inmates for reintegration into society.
However, González expressed concern over the worsening security situation, including recent terrorist attacks in central Mali, which resulted in numerous casualties. He condemned these attacks and stressed the importance of investigating the crimes, prosecuting the perpetrators, and ensuring that all military operations, including those involving foreign partners, comply with international human rights and humanitarian laws.
González is scheduled to present his full report to the Human Rights Council in March 2025.
