Chad’s government announced on November 28, 2024, that it has ended its longstanding defense cooperation agreement with France, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy. The decision underscores Chad’s desire to assert full sovereignty, more than six decades after gaining independence from France. Officials stated that the move is part of a broader effort to redefine strategic partnerships and increase autonomy in security and governance.
This development follows a pattern in West and Central Africa, where countries have increasingly distanced themselves from France’s military presence. France, which has historically maintained strong ties in the region, recently withdrew troops from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso amid growing anti-French sentiment and a wave of military coups. Chad’s decision is another blow to France’s influence in Africa, further challenging its leadership in the Sahel and Central African regions.
The defense cooperation agreement facilitated the presence of about 1,000 French troops and warplanes stationed in Chad, supporting counterterrorism and stability efforts in the volatile Sahel region. Chad has been a key ally in Western-backed operations against Islamic militants. However, the relationship has faced strain in recent years, with criticism of France’s inability to effectively combat insurgencies and mounting local frustrations over perceived neocolonial dynamics
s also been moving closer to Russia, which has expanded its presence across Africa, particularly in countries seeking alternatives to Western partnerships. Reports suggest that Chadian President Mahamat Déby has cultivated ties with Russian actors, including the Wagner Group, which has established a significant footprint in the Sahel. This pivot mirrors trends across the continent, where leaders are seeking diversified alliances to better meet their strategic and economic needs.
This decision does not aim to undermine friendly relations with France, and the transition will respect the terms of the agreement to ensure an orderly withdrawal of French forces. The announcement reflects a broader reconfiguration of international partnerships in Africa, with nations increasingly asserting their independence while reevaluating traditional alliances. The implications for regional security and geopolitical dynamics remain uncertain as Chad navigates its path toward greater sovereignty in a rapidly changing landscape.
