Making Peace, building the state. Relations between central government and the Sahelian peripheries in Niger and Mali

Open Access

Abstract

On surface, Nigeria and Mali share fairly similar territorial configurations and historical trajectories. Recurring rebellions supported by mainly nomadic groups raise the question of relations between the centre and peripheries in these states. The purpose of this study is to analyse how these states try "peacemaking", in the absence of "peacebuilding", resulting in short-term hybrid arrangements that are cobbled together. The study integrates ways to make peace and wage war within a common analytical context.