Mali : Violence Against Peacekeepers Escalates - Resurgent Islamist Militant Attacks Pose a Threat to Ongoing Negotiations between Government and Separatist Parties - : West Africa - Issue in Focus

Attacks on peacekeepers in Mali are likely intended by Islamist militants to prompt the withdrawal of peacekeeping forces. Those peacekeepers remain vital to maintaining a modicum of peace and stability in the country, particularly in its troubled north. Meanwhile, representatives of the government and various separatist groups attempt to negotiate a lasting peace.