MAURITANIA IN THE RECONFIGURATION OF THE MAGHREB-SAHEL. EUROPEAN PARTNERSHIP, EXTERNAL COMPETITION AND STRATEGIC AUTONOMY.

Abstract

This dissertation analyses Mauritania¿s strategic repositioning within the Maghreb-Sahel since 2015, in a context marked by political instability, security threats, migration pressures and growing external competition. It examines how Mauritania has increased its geopolitical relevance by presenting itself as a relatively stable and cooperative actor between North Africa, the Sahel and the Atlantic space. The study focuses especially on the evolution of EU-Mauritania relations, particularly in the fields of security, border management, migration governance and strategic partnership. At the same time, it considers the influence of other external actors, including China, Russia, Gulf states and Turkey, and how their presence affects Mauritania¿s scope for independent action. Through documentary analysis and fieldwork interviews conducted in Mauritania, the research highlights both the opportunities and asymmetries of this strategic repositioning. Overall, it argues that Mauritania uses its geographical position, political stability and diversified partnerships to strengthen its autonomy and consolidate its role in a changing regional order.