Problems and prospects for the development of foreign policy of the Sahel countries in the context of modern international relations

Abstract

This article covers the problems of foreign policy problems faced by the Sahel countries. The research is dedicated to the peculiarities of the policy of Sahel Alliance in countering the risks and threats to regional security. The goal consists in outlining the key priorities and vectors of foreign policy of the Sahel countries. The methodological framework is comprised of the historical-comparative and historical-genetic methods, as well as content analysis of the doctrinal sources of the Sahel countries for determination of the foremost threats. This allows establishing differences between the approaches used by Chad, Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso aimed at expansion of their economic, political and military influence in the Sahel Region. The scientific novelty consists in the fact that on the basis of content analysis of UN speeches of the leaders of Sahel countries, the author examines the prioritization of threats for the four countries of Sahel Region and the desired mechanisms for their elimination. The current challenge for the Sahel countries is to simultaneously protect their people and promote development via reform for establishing lasting and stable peace in the region. At the same time, such countries as Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad and the Sahel Region overall have strengthen their strategic importance for the European foreign policy and security interests.