Current issues
The current political and economic situation in Chad is a source of great concern. On the political front, the country is currently undergoing a transition in preparation for legislative elections scheduled for the end of 2024. However, this transitional period is marked by major challenges, particularly with regard to the preparation and conduct of free and fair elections, necessary to restore the democratic legitimacy of the government. In addition, Chad has been affected by recurrent humanitarian crises, armed conflicts and displaced persons from Sudan and Libya, which are a real concern for the Chadian state and the international community. On the social front, citizens are facing a significant rise in the cost of living, fuel shortages and the harmful effects of teachers' union strikes, which are disrupting the education system and having a direct impact on the country's youth. In the east of the country, the issue of Sudanese refugees remains a major concern, requiring special attention and appropriate measures to address this humanitarian crisis. In this context, the recent presidential election in May 2024 confirming the transitional President, Mahamat Idriss Deby, raises hopes of a possible resolution of outstanding issues and the easing of social and political tensions. It is crucial that the new government implements effective policies to alleviate the economic and social pressures weighing on the population.
Tourism in Chad
Chad is a country with an incredible diversity of landscapes, characterized by striking geographical and climatic contrasts. The northern part of the country, in particular the BET region, abounds in a wealth of tourist attractions. There are caves adorned with cave paintings, ancestral testimonies to the art and life of ancient populations. The region is also home to protected areas such as Lake Fitri, Ouadi Rime and Ouadi Achim, offering unique ecosystems and remarkable biodiversity. These sites offer visitors the opportunity to discover breathtaking landscapes, as well as to immerse themselves in Chad's fascinating history and culture. However, Chad faces challenges in terms of tourism development, particularly in terms of transport, accommodation and service infrastructures. The country has also faced security problems, which have limited the influx of foreign visitors.
The conflict between breeders and farmers
The conflict between herders and farmers in Chad has become an increasingly worrying national issue, and one that needs to be taken very seriously. Every day there are reports of clashes between these two groups, invariably resulting in loss of life and no lasting solution. At the root of these tensions is the thorny question of access to grazing land, a central issue in this region. The government has set up transhumance corridors and built water points, but unfortunately these measures are proving insufficient. The current situation calls for concerted action by the government, local communities and international players to find lasting solutions to this conflict. It is crucial to engage in an inclusive dialogue between herders and farmers in order to understand the concerns of each group and seek compromises acceptable to all. In addition, further investment in rural infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and reforestation projects, could help alleviate pressure on natural resources and create economic opportunities for local communities.
Sudanese refugees
The situation in Chad today is marked by the presence of over one and a half million Sudanese refugees on its territory. This crisis, often overlooked by international attention, has deteriorated significantly while the world has been absorbed by other emergencies. The massive presence of Sudanese refugees in Chad is symptomatic of a forgotten crisis that continues to worsen in the shadows. Pierre Honnorat, Director of the World Food Program (WFP) in Chad, underlined the scale of the crisis when he declared: "It is frightening to note that the number of people in Darfur (a region of Sudan) who have fled to Chad in the last six months has been higher than in the last 20 years". These alarming figures highlight the urgency of the situation and underline the need for a coordinated international response.
Controversial presidential election
Chad's recent presidential election was marked by tensions and disputes. President Mahamat Idriss Déby, elected by universal suffrage, is at the heart of a controversy that calls into question the legitimacy of his mandate. His accession to power, initially hailed by some as a hope for stability, is now being challenged by his main rival, Dr Succès Masra, who denounces irregularities and abuses of power during the electoral process.
Dr Masra, an emblematic figure of the opposition, has mobilized broad popular support by advocating far-reaching reforms and transparent governance. His criticisms focus not only on the conditions under which the elections were organized, but also on the violence and restrictions on freedoms that are said to have marked this electoral period. This situation raises crucial questions about the country's democratic future. While Mahamat Idriss Déby's government strives to maintain order and meet the expectations of its citizens, the opposition is calling for an inclusive national dialogue to ease tensions and guarantee a genuine democratic process. Chad thus stands at a decisive crossroads, where the commitment of political players and the will of the people will be essential to build lasting peace and a prosperous future.
