Algeria Demands Justice for Civilian Casualties in Mali, Urges International Accountability

✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | August 27th, 2024 — Algeria has made a forceful appeal for international accountability following the tragic deaths of over 20 Malian civilians in a recent airstrike, underscoring the urgent need to address violations of international humanitarian law. Speaking at the United Nations headquarters in New York during a session commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Amar Bendjama, called for those responsible to be held accountable.

Ambassador Bendjama condemned the lack of accountability for those who authorized the strike, stating, “Those who initiated this attack remain beyond the reach of any authority.” He also voiced deep concern over the increasing use of private military companies by certain states, warning that their actions could further destabilize the region and pose significant threats to peace and security.

In his address, Bendjama demanded an immediate end to the violations committed by these private forces, highlighting the severe consequences of their unchecked operations. “It is imperative that we address the new threats confronting our nations,” he asserted, “which go beyond technological risks to include the growing influence of private military entities employed by some countries.”

The ambassador emphasized ongoing efforts within the United Nations Security Council and General Assembly to establish a legal framework that would ensure accountability for these non-state actors and their violations of international humanitarian law.

Algeria’s call for justice follows a report by the Permanent Strategic Framework for the Defense of the Azawad People, which detailed that 21 civilians, including 11 children and a pharmacist, were killed in drone strikes conducted by the Malian military in coordination with Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group. These attacks took place just meters from the Algerian border, heightening concerns over regional security.

In contrast, the Malian military presented a different narrative, claiming that the strikes targeted approximately 20 militants and destroyed a vehicle carrying war materials in the Ti-n-Zaouâtene
area on Sunday.

Algeria’s demand for international action underscores the critical need for the global community to address the growing use of private military forces and the implications of their actions on international peace and security. Ambassador Bendjama concluded by urging the United Nations to find a mechanism to hold these non-state actors accountable for their breaches of international humanitarian law, ensuring that such tragedies do not occur in the future.

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