Evaluating The Evolving Dynamics of Terrorism in Northern Mali and Its Impact on Global Security

Abstract

This study examines the dynamics of terrorism in Northern Mali, focusing on its root causes, evolution, and regional implications from 2012 to the present. The research is framed around the problem of how weak governance, socio-economic deprivation, and systemic marginalization have created a fertile environment for extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS). These groups exploit political instability, ethnic divisions, and resource conflicts to embed themselves within local communities and sustain operations. The study also investigates how local grievances intersect with global jihadist ideologies, shaping the strategies and resilience of terrorist organizations in the region. The research adopts a qualitative methodology, utilizing thematic analysis and case studies to explore the socio-political and economic conditions that fuel terrorism in Northern Mali. Secondary data sources, including policy reports, academic literature, and international organization records, are triangulated to ensure reliability. The study incorporates theoretical frameworks such as rational choice theory, social identity theory, and the frustration-aggression hypothesis to analyze the motivations, strategies, and impact of extremist groups. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of the interplay between local and international dimensions of terrorism. The findings emphasize the limitations of current counter-terrorism strategies, particularly those centered on military interventions. The research advocates for integrated approaches that combine governance reforms, economic development, and conflict-sensitive policies to address the systemic drivers of extremism. It also underscores the importance of regional cooperation to counter the transnational dimensions of terrorism, including illicit trafficking and cross-border insurgencies. This study contributes to the discourse on counter-terrorism by offering actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking sustainable solutions to the complex challenges posed by terrorism in Northern Mali and the broader Sahel region