Economist Podcasts In over its head of state: Mali’s coup
Aug 21, 2020
Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent for The Economist, unpacks the recent coup in Mali, marked by public unrest and years of violence. He discusses the daunting challenges facing new leadership as instability looms. Mariana Palau, The Economist correspondent based in Bogota, highlights the alarming impact of Chinese fishing vessels on the Galapagos Islands, raising concerns over ecological preservation. They also explore the resilience of the restaurant industry during the pandemic, emphasizing the emotional connections that make dining out much more than just food.
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Predicting Coups
- Mali was a predictable choice for a coup due to several compounding factors.
- These include past coups, recent protests, ongoing violence, and an unpopular president.
Roots of Protests
- The protests in Mali stemmed from disputed elections, escalating violence, and economic hardship.
- Concerns about government corruption, fueled by a popular imam, added to the unrest.
Escalating Violence
- The conflict began in 2012 with a rebellion in northern Mali, leading to French intervention.
- Despite foreign troops, violence has spread, exacerbated by a weak government unable to protect its people.
