Abstract
This study examines the relationship between coups and the decentering of French relations in Francophone West Africa, focusing on the cases of Mali and Burkina Faso. Through a multiple case study and process tracing methodology, the research analyzes pre- and post-coup periods to identify shifts in diplomatic, economic, and military ties with France. The findings suggest that in the aftermath of military coups, governments in both countries actively sought to distance themselves from France by expelling French military forces, denouncing defense agreements, suspending French media outlets, and forging new international partnerships, particularly with Russia. While these actions align with efforts to break from neocolonial influences and assert national sovereignty, the extent to which they are explicitly motivated by ideological rejection of France’s post-colonial presence remains unclear. This research contributes to the broader discourse on post-colonial relations, African sovereignty, and shifting geopolitical alliances, offering insights into how military takeovers influence foreign policy realignments in the region.
Advisor
Krain, Matthew
Department
Political Science
Recommended Citation
Unvu, Aku, "Down with France: True Independence or Continued Political Instability?" (2025). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 11524.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/11524
Disciplines
Arts and Humanities
Publication Date
2025
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2025 Aku Unvu