Shining a Light on the Regional Angle: Theorizing a Conflict Driver in the Sahel

Combining the regional focus of the Sahelian conflict literature and the quantitative record of broader conflict literature, I examine how governmental exclusion of subnational regional elite from the process of governance affects Sahelian conflict. First, I perform quantitative analysis with an original dataset that tests government inclusion of regional elite in Senegal and Mali, as well as subnational development and corruption, against conflict fatalities. I then use qualitative analysis in the form of four case studies which analyze regions that stood out in light of my theory. Ultimately, the quantitative analysis found no significant relationship between regional elite inclusion and conflict severity. However, in my case studies I am able to showcase interesting relationships between governmental inclusion and conflict in specific regions. I conclude that there are multiple useful directions for future research and apply my research to criticize the violent and repressive actions of Mali’s military junta.