The Government of Mali has finalized a sweeping overhaul of its defense and security architecture, marking the first major revision since the 2004 National Defense Law. The new framework expands its scope to encompass internal security, cyberspace protection, and holistic crisis management. Approved by the National Transitional Council (NTC) in July 2026, the reform is set to replace the outdated 2004 legislation once officially enacted.
The Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Daoud Aly Mohammedine, highlighted the necessity of this update in light of over two decades of security evolution and operational challenges. He emphasized that the reform process engaged multiple security stakeholders from the outset, ensuring a collaborative approach to reshaping the nation’s defense and security policies.
The original 2004 framework, while addressing military operations, already included provisions for internal security, civil defense, and the participation of local governments, civil society, and communities. Under the previous structure, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces led military operations and held operational authority over certain security forces during territorial defense scenarios.
Strengthening national security through integrated governance
The new law does not create entirely new responsibilities but refines and consolidates existing ones to align with contemporary threats. Internal security and cyber defense are now explicitly recognized as core components of national security. The National Security Council and the National Defense Committee replace their predecessors—the Superior Defense Council and the former Defense Committee—to enhance centralized decision-making under the President’s leadership.
Operational command unity is now firmly entrenched under the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces for territorial defense. This streamlined structure aims to accelerate responses when multiple forces are deployed against major threats, crises, or cross-border dangers. However, it does not place the National Police, Gendarmerie, National Guard, or Civil Protection under permanent military control.
An important evolution since 2022 is the militarization of the National Police and Civil Protection, a change designed to facilitate their integration into a unified security apparatus while preserving their public safety and emergency response roles.
During his address to the NTC, General Daoud Aly Mohammedine underscored three critical priorities: reinforcing territorial administration, leveraging traditional leadership in counterterrorism efforts, and continuing force recruitment and equipment upgrades. These priorities align with the expanded role of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, which now oversees civil defense, interagency coordination, local government engagement, and public mobilization. The goal is to establish a seamless alert system from local communities without turning civilians into auxiliary security personnel.
Cybersecurity takes center stage in the new security paradigm
In June, separate legislation was adopted to establish the National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI), as outlined in the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2026–2030. This agency is tasked with coordinating responses to cyber threats and safeguarding critical infrastructure. Cyber defense is now treated as a strategic state function, while cybersecurity encompasses broader measures to protect government networks, communication systems, and digital services.
The reform’s practical impact is already evident in initiatives like the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program. On August 4, 254 former combatants completed training in Soufouroulaye and were integrated into the Armed Forces. The program aims to integrate 2,000 ex-fighters and reintegrate 1,000 others into civilian life. Though not legally tied to the new law, this initiative compels defense, security, reconciliation, and local authorities to collaborate closely.
The success of this new strategy hinges less on the titles of new institutions and more on the implementation of robust procedures. Key factors include the development of application texts, intelligence sharing, local government resources, cyber capabilities, integration monitoring, and clear delineation of responsibilities. This reform establishes a critical chain of command. Its effectiveness will be measured by the speed of decision-making, operational coordination, and the trust between institutions, security forces, and the public.
