International human rights experts are sounding the alarm over recent legislative moves in Mali that threaten the fundamental rights of political participation. A newly proposed law and executive decree, both aimed at curtailing political party activities, have been condemned as direct violations of human rights and democratic principles.
why the new measures raise serious concerns
The draft law, adopted by the Council of Ministers, and a subsequent decree suspending all political party activities until further notice, are being viewed as a dangerous step backward for Mali‘s democratic trajectory. According to a joint statement by UN human rights experts, these actions undermine the rights to freedom of expression and association, which are cornerstones of any functioning democracy.
The government has defended the measures as efforts to curb the proliferation of political parties, arguing that the changes do not eliminate parties altogether but aim to streamline the political landscape. However, critics argue that the proposed financial barriers for party registration and candidacy—exorbitant deposit requirements—will effectively exclude smaller parties and limit political participation to wealthy elites.
flawed consultations and lack of transparency
The government claims the new law stems from consultations held during the 2021 National Refoundation Conference and the April 2025 review of the Political Parties Charter. Yet, human rights experts have highlighted a glaring lack of genuine dialogue in a climate where civic space is rapidly shrinking. Journalists and opposition figures face growing risks of reprisals for exercising their right to free speech, making open and inclusive consultations nearly impossible.
Several political parties boycotted the April 2025 consultations, fearing the process was designed to dissolve parties or restrict their operations. The Council of Ministers also endorsed controversial recommendations, including the extension of the current transitional president’s term—General Assimi Goita—for an additional five years without elections, starting in 2025. These actions, experts warn, contradict both national and international human rights commitments made by Mali.
experts call for immediate reversal
The draft law is now set to be reviewed by the National Transitional Council, led by General Malick Diaw. In a strong appeal, the UN experts urged the council to reject the legislation outright:
« We urge the National Transitional Council to refrain from approving this draft law. We stand ready to assist the government in revising the amendments to ensure full alignment with international human rights standards. »
Following the law’s adoption, political parties have announced plans for public demonstrations on May 3 and 4. However, reports indicate that pro-government groups disrupted these gatherings, raising further concerns about the suppression of peaceful assembly. Additional protests have been scheduled for May 9, with activists emphasizing the importance of the right to peaceful protest in sustaining a vibrant and inclusive political environment.
The experts emphasized that Mali‘s transitional authorities must respect and protect the right to peaceful assembly, warning that intimidation and repression tactics threaten both the safety of demonstrators and the integrity of the democratic process.
about the experts
The joint statement was issued by three prominent UN human rights experts:
- Eduardo Gonzalez, Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Mali;
- Irene Khan, Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression;
- Gina Romero, Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association.
Note: Special Rapporteurs and Independent Experts are part of the UN’s Special Procedures, an independent mechanism that monitors human rights violations worldwide. These experts serve in a voluntary capacity and are not UN staff or paid employees.