SECURITY OR DEVELOPMENT? A Budgetary Dilemma in the Context of the 2024 Elections and International Pressure[SÉCURITÉ OU DÉVELOPPEMENT ? : Un dilemme budgétaire dans le contexte des élections de 2024 et de la pression internationale]

This study provides an in-depth analysis of Mali's 2024 budget amidst security challenges and developmental needs, focusing on the budget's ability to rationalize state expenditures and balance security spending with socio-economic development investments. Covering the period from 2019-2024, it employs quantitative and qualitative methods, including linear regressions and interviews with 24 military officers. The analysis reveals a significant increase in defense and security spending, without a corresponding improvement in security indicators. A moderate, yet statistically insignificant correlation is found between security expenditures and conflict-related mortality rates. Interviews highlight the perceived necessity for increased security spending, despite its uncertain long-term effectiveness. The study underscores the importance of balanced budget management, integrating both security expenses and socio-economic development investments, to promote sustainable growth and stability in Mali.