Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Evelyn N
Published on 2024-02-18 12:59:41
The recent appeal by the International Crisis Group (ICG) to the African Union (AU) to prioritize addressing Cameroon’s Anglophone conflict has brought increased international attention to the ongoing crisis. As the AU gathers for its 2024 summit in Addis Ababa, the question arises whether Cameroon’s crisis will finally be discussed on the agenda, and if any real change can occur given the history of failed attempts at resolution.
The roots of the Anglophone crisis can be traced back to Cameroon’s colonial past. After French and British rule, the predominantly English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions were merged with the French-speaking majority in 1961. However, feelings of marginalization, underrepresentation, and linguistic discrimination persisted over the years.
The spark that ignited the crisis occurred in 2016 when peaceful protests by lawyers and teachers demanding equality in the legal and education systems were met with a heavy-handed response from the government. This led to wider demonstrations and the beginning of a cycle of violence.
By 2017, the crisis had escalated into an armed conflict between separatist groups advocating for an independent state called “Ambazonia” and the Cameroonian military. Both sides have been accused of human rights abuses against civilians, resulting in a climate of fear and displacement.
Despite several attempts at dialogue and de-escalation, including a 2019 national dialogue and the release of some detainees, little progress has been made due to mistrust, continued violence, and preconditions set by both sides. The situation in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions remains dire, with thousands killed, hundreds of thousands displaced, and the education system paralyzed.
The ICG’s plea to the AU represents a renewed push for international engagement, raising the question of whether it can be the turning point Cameroon desperately needs. While there are factors for cautious optimism, such as mounting international pressure, the AU’s focus on peace and security, and Cameroon’s economic woes incentivizing the government to seek solutions, challenges also remain. These include internal divisions within the AU, Cameroon’s resistance to external pressure, and the complexity of the conflict.
In conclusion, while the path forward remains uncertain, the ICG’s appeal presents a critical opportunity for the AU to address Cameroon’s Anglophone crisis. Only through sustained international pressure, genuine commitment from the government, and a willingness to compromise from all sides can a true turning point be achieved, bringing an end to the suffering and paving the way for a lasting peace.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
