Here’s an overview of the current situation regarding civil wars and unrest around the world today:
Ethiopia
The conflict in Ethiopia has persisted with significant fighting involving the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF), Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), and Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF). The regions of Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia remain hotspots with ongoing ethnic and political tensions. Efforts for peace have been fraught with challenges, with reports of human rights abuses and ethnic violence continuing.
Yemen
The civil war in Yemen continues with Houthi rebels controlling much of the north, including the capital, Sana’a. The conflict has seen increased international involvement, particularly with the U.S. and UK conducting strikes against Houthi targets due to their attacks in the Red Sea. The humanitarian crisis remains dire, with widespread food insecurity and displacement.
Myanmar
Following the military coup in February 2021, Myanmar has been in a state of civil war with various ethnic armed organizations and the People’s Defence Force (PDF, formed post-coup) fighting against the military junta. The conflict has led to significant displacement, human rights abuses, and a complex web of alliances and combat zones across the country.
Syria
Although the intensity has decreased, Syria’s civil war is not fully resolved. Pockets of resistance remain, particularly in the northwest and northeast, with ongoing international military presence. The situation in Idlib, the last major rebel-held area, remains tense with occasional flare-ups, while the Kurdish-controlled areas seek autonomy.
Sudan
Sudan has slipped into civil conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) challenging the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This conflict has led to significant displacement, particularly in Darfur and other regions, exacerbating an already fragile humanitarian situation following years of political instability.
Mali and the Sahel Region
Mali remains a focal point for conflict in the Sahel, with jihadist groups, self-defense militias, and government forces in ongoing clashes. The withdrawal of French forces and the end of the UN mission there have left a security vacuum that various armed groups are trying to fill, leading to increased instability.
Haiti
Haiti faces severe gang violence, political instability, and a humanitarian crisis. Gangs control much of Port-au-Prince, leading to widespread violence, kidnappings, and a significant challenge for the government in maintaining any semblance of order.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The eastern DRC continues to be plagued by conflicts involving numerous armed groups vying for control over land and resources. This has led to ongoing displacement, humanitarian crises, and international efforts to stabilize the region, including MONUSCO’s presence, although their effectiveness is often debated.
Several of these conflicts are influenced by upcoming or contested elections, which can either exacerbate or potentially offer a path to resolving some conflicts.
Many of these civil conflicts have drawn significant international attention, leading to various degrees of foreign military intervention, sanctions, or peacekeeping efforts, which sometimes complicate local dynamics further.
The specifics can change rapidly due to the fluid nature of civil conflicts and unrest. Follow us to stay updated on the current situation around the globe.