A recent German-funded study provides an in-depth view of the nature of the Mauritanian army, describing it as a “highly politicized” institution that plays a decisive role in shaping the country’s civil political direction.
The research was carried out as part of the project Major Trends in Africa, conducted between 2021 and 2025, with results released in May 2025.
The Central Role of the Army in Politics
The study emphasizes that the Mauritanian army is not just a conventional military force performing defense duties, but a central actor in political decision-making, where its influence clearly overlaps with civilian authority.
According to the findings, the army uses its power—directly or indirectly—to dominate the political scene, limiting the development of strong democratic institutions.
Factors of Politicization and Regional Composition
The research also highlights the deep politicization within the army, noting strong regional affiliations, particularly from eastern and northern Mauritania—especially among the بيضان (Bidhân).
It found that most of the recently promoted officers come from these regions, widening the gap between the military and civil society.
The Role of European Support and Future Challenges
The study warns that European—especially German—assistance aimed at strengthening the Mauritanian army may unintentionally entrench military influence at the expense of civilian politics.
While the support seeks to promote security and stability, it could also create conditions favorable to the rise of new military factions striving for power, potentially triggering a return to military coups.
Warnings for the Political Future
According to the study, the army could become an even more decisive player in the event of a political crisis, particularly as officers backed by foreign partners gain prominence.
It calls for a comprehensive reassessment of external aid policies to ensure they reinforce civilian institutions and support democratic governance in Mauritania.
This analysis explores the political, military, and social dimensions of Mauritania in depth, sparking an important discussion on the nation’s political future and the need to achieve a lasting balance between civil and military power to guarantee stability and democratic growth.
📌 Read more on this link:https://www.elhodh.info/en/al-hawd-news-2/
