Islamic Republic of Mauritania: A Geopolitical Assessment (2025)

Introduction and Overview

Mauritania, officially the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, occupies a unique space in Northwest Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Western Sahara, Algeria, Mali, and Senegal. Its vast (1,030,700 sq km) and largely desert terrain (90%) presents both opportunities and challenges. The country's predominantly hot and arid climate exacerbates environmental vulnerabilities, including desertification and drought, impacting the livelihoods of its predominantly (61.3% in 2024) urban population of nearly 5 million.

Mauritania's complex social fabric reflects its history. The dominant Moorish community (Bidhan – of "free" or "noble" descent - and Haratin – of enslaved descent, considered "freed" slaves) coexists with Afro-Mauritanian ethnic groups (Halpulaar, Wolof, Soninke, and Bambara), each with distinct languages and cultures. This ethnic diversity has often been a source of political tension and conflict, particularly given the legacy of slavery and continued marginalization of the Haratin. Since independence from France in 1960, Mauritania's political landscape has been marred by periods of military rule and fragile democratic transitions, marked by contested elections and accusations of human rights abuses. Its economy, largely dependent on extraction (iron ore, gold, fish, and increasingly natural gas), is vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. This economic dependence is a legacy of its colonial past and continues to shape its development trajectory. However, Mauritania's strategic location at the crossroads of the Maghreb, West Africa, and the Sahel, along with its vast renewable energy potential and emerging gas sector, make it an increasingly important player in regional geopolitics and a focal point for international engagement, including with regard to irregular migration flows to Europe.

Geopolitical Risk Landscape:

• Instability in the Sahel: The Sahel region, south of Mauritania, faces escalating insecurity and political instability due to terrorism, coups, and weak governance, posing risks of spillover effects.

• Competition for Resources: Mauritania's natural gas reserves, critical minerals, and renewable energy potential are attracting attention from global powers (China, United States, Russia, and European Union), intensifying geopolitical competition. (Mauritius 2023 Human Rights Report, p.1; Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.1)

• Migration Flows: Mauritania's location on the Atlantic coast makes it a key transit point for irregular migration to Europe, putting pressure on the country and its relations with the European Union. (Mauritania - the latest target in EU migration control, p.1)

• Climate Change: Mauritania is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, including desertification, drought, and rising sea levels, which can exacerbate existing socio-economic challenges and potentially trigger conflict. (Climate, Peace, and Security in Mauritania, p.1)

Data Synthesis and Organization

I. Historical Context and Colonial Legacies

• French Colonial Rule (1903-1960): Part of French West Africa until independence, Mauritania's colonial past continues to shape its political, economic, and social structures. French influence is evident in the country's legal system, education system, and language, although Arabic is the sole official language and there is an ongoing debate about the role of the Arabic language in governance and education. This colonial legacy has also contributed to the marginalization of non-Arabic speaking Afro-Mauritanian ethnic groups. (Weapons of the Weak, and of the Strong, p.7; Why Everyone Is Courting Mauritania, p.1)

• Legacy of Slavery (Pre-2007): The historical practice of chattel slavery, where Black Mauritanians (especially the Haratin ethnic group) were enslaved by Arab-Berber masters (Bidhan), remains a deeply rooted social and political issue. Although slavery was officially abolished in 1981 and criminalized in 2007, its legacy persists in the form of social stratification, discrimination, and limited access to education, employment, and political participation for the Haratin community. The continued denial of full citizenship rights and pervasive discrimination against the Haratin contribute to social tensions and hinder national reconciliation efforts. (Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.2; Mauritania 2023 Human Rights Report, p.14)

• Post-Colonial Instability (1960-2019): Since independence, Mauritania has experienced recurrent military coups and periods of autocratic rule, interrupting democratic transitions and undermining the rule of law. This instability has contributed to weak governance, corruption, and human rights abuses, hindering the country's economic development and social progress. The most recent coup in 2008 led to a period of military rule under General Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, who was subsequently elected president in contested elections. (Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.2)

II. Political Developments

• 2019 Democratic Transition: The 2019 presidential election marked a turning point in Mauritania's political history, with the first peaceful transfer of power between two presidents. The election of Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, a former general and close associate of the previous military ruler, was seen as a step toward democratic consolidation. (Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.3)

• Competitive Authoritarianism (2019-Present): Despite the peaceful transition, Mauritania's political system can be characterized as "competitive authoritarian," where democratic institutions exist but are often undermined by the military and ruling party's influence. The opposition has limited political space, and media freedoms are restricted. This hybrid system combines elements of democratic processes with authoritarian practices, creating a dynamic political landscape. (BTI 2024 Country Report, p.3, 9)

• Political Opposition & Civil Society Activism: Political parties operate, but face constraints on mobilization and participation. Civil society organizations, particularly those focused on human rights and anti-slavery activism, play a crucial role in advocating for political reforms and holding the government accountable, though they often face harassment and restrictions on their activities. (BTI 2024 Country Report, p. 9-10, 16; Mauritania: Freedom in the World 2024 Country Report, p. 2)

III. Institutional and Electoral Processes

• Presidential Elections (2024): ​In the 2024 presidential elections, incumbent President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani secured re-election with 56.12 percent of the vote, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). His main rival, anti-slavery activist Biram Dah Abeid, received 22.10 percent, while Hamadi Ould Sid' El Moctar of the Tewassoul party garnered 12.78 percent. The voter turnout was 55.39 percent, lower than in 2019. Abeid rejected the results, alleging manipulation by the government, leading to demonstrations by his supporters in Nouakchott. Ghazouani's victory grants him a second term as leader of Mauritania, a nation considered relatively stable in the volatile Sahel region and poised to become a gas producer. 

• Judicial Independence (Weak): Despite constitutional provisions for an independent judiciary, the judiciary in Mauritania lacks full independence from the executive branch. The president appoints key judges, including those on the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court, limiting checks and balances and potentially influencing judicial decisions. Furthermore, there are concerns about corruption and lack of transparency within the judiciary, hindering access to justice for ordinary citizens. (Mauritania: Freedom in the World 2024 Country Report, p.10; Mauritania 2023 Human Rights Report, p.4)

• Inconsistent Law Enforcement (2022-2024): Law enforcement in Mauritania is characterized by inconsistencies, particularly in addressing human rights abuses by government officials. Instances of arbitrary arrest, police brutality, and restrictions on freedom of assembly have been reported. While there have been some efforts to hold perpetrators accountable, enforcement has been inconsistent, undermining the rule of law and eroding public trust in law enforcement institutions. (Mauritania 2023 Human Rights Report, p.2-3; BTI 2024 Country Report, p.2)

IV. Socio-Economic Factors

• Resource-Dependent Economy: Mauritania's economy is heavily reliant on extractive industries, including iron ore, gold, and fish, making it highly vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. This dependence limits economic diversification and can contribute to boom-and-bust cycles. The recent discovery of significant offshore natural gas reserves (Grand Tortue Ahmeyim) is set to transform Mauritania into a gas exporter, but also raises concerns about the potential for the "resource curse," where resource wealth exacerbates inequality and corruption rather than contributing to sustainable development. (Mauritania Overview: Development news, research, data, p.1-2)

• Uneven Service Provision (Urban-Rural): Access to essential services like education, healthcare, water, and sanitation is unevenly distributed across Mauritania, with rural communities facing significant disadvantages compared to urban centers. This disparity exacerbates existing socio-economic inequalities and limits opportunities for rural populations, potentially fueling resentment and social unrest. (BTI 2024 Country Report, p.8; Climate, Peace, and Security in Mauritania, p.1)

• High Poverty and Inequality (2023): Poverty and inequality are persistent challenges in Mauritania. In 2023, approximately 27% of the population lived below the poverty line, and the Gini coefficient stood at 32.6, indicating substantial income inequality. Poverty is concentrated among certain ethnic groups, particularly the Haratin and other marginalized communities, reflecting historical injustices and ongoing discrimination. These deep-rooted inequalities hinder social mobility and threaten to undermine social cohesion. (BTI 2024 Country Report, p. 3, 18)

• Limited Economic Diversification: Despite recent economic growth, Mauritania's economy remains highly undiversified and heavily reliant on a few extractive industries and foreign aid. This makes the country vulnerable to external shocks and limits its potential for sustainable development and job creation, particularly for its growing youth population. Efforts to promote economic diversification, including through investments in renewable energy and other sectors, have been slow to yield results. (BTI 2024 Country Report, p.19-20; The Desert Powerhouse, p.5)

V. Security and Conflict Dynamics

• Sahel Spillover Risks: The escalating violence and instability in the Sahel region, south of Mauritania, pose a significant security threat to the country. The presence of extremist groups, transnational criminal networks, and armed conflicts in neighboring countries increases the risk of cross-border attacks, refugee flows, and the spread of illicit weapons, requiring strengthened border security measures and regional cooperation to contain those threats. (Europe, Beyond its Southern Border, p.3; Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.1)

• Intercommunal Violence (2010s-2020s): While Mauritania has experienced a period of relative peace in recent years, there is a history of intercommunal violence and conflict, particularly between the Moor and Afro-Mauritanian communities, often rooted in disputes over land, resources, and political representation. These tensions can be exacerbated by climate change impacts such as resource scarcity and drought, increasing the potential for future conflicts. (Climate, Peace, and Security in Mauritania, p.2)

• Border Tensions: Mauritania has longstanding border disputes with neighboring countries, including Algeria and Morocco over Western Sahara and with Mali over grazing lands and cross-border movements. These disputes can create tensions and occasionally lead to armed clashes, requiring diplomatic efforts and international mediation to resolve peacefully. (Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.2)

VI. Foreign Policy Environment

• Multi-Vector Foreign Policy: Mauritania pursues a multi-vector foreign policy, seeking to balance relations with various global powers and regional actors. The country maintains close ties with its former colonial power, France, while also developing partnerships with China, Russia, and other countries in the Middle East and North Africa. This approach allows Mauritania to diversify its sources of aid, investment, and security cooperation, but also requires careful navigation of competing interests and geopolitical rivalries. (Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.1, 4-5)

• Focus on Economic Development: A central objective of Mauritania's foreign policy is to attract foreign investment and promote economic development, particularly in the extractive industries (natural gas, mining), and renewable energy sectors. The country has actively sought partnerships with international companies and investors and has implemented policies to improve the business climate and streamline investment procedures. (The Desert Powerhouse, p.3)

• Active in Regional Organizations: Mauritania is an active member of several regional organizations, including the African Union, the Arab League, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The country has played a key role in regional efforts to address security challenges in the Sahel and to promote economic integration. (Why Everyone is Courting Mauritania, p.3)

VII. Unique to Country Topics

• Antislavery Efforts: Slavery persists in Mauritania despite being officially abolished and criminalized. The practice is deeply rooted in the country's history and culture, particularly among the Haratin ethnic group, who continue to face discrimination and marginalization. Government efforts to eradicate slavery, including through legal reforms and public awareness campaigns, have been met with resistance and have been criticized for being insufficient. International pressure, including from the UN and human rights organizations, remains a key driver for change. (Mauritania: Freedom in the World 2024 Country Report, p.12)

• Women’s Political and Economic Participation: Women in Mauritania face significant barriers to participation in political and economic life. Limited access to education, employment opportunities, and healthcare, along with social and cultural norms that restrict women's roles, hinder their empowerment and contribute to persistent gender inequality. (Mauritania 2023 Human Rights Report, p.11-12)

• Religious Freedom and Social Tolerance: While Mauritania is an Islamic republic, there is a growing debate about the role of religion in governance and society. Concerns have been raised about restrictions on religious freedom for non-Muslims, as well as discrimination and intolerance against minority religious groups. The promotion of social tolerance and interfaith dialogue is crucial for fostering peaceful coexistence and social cohesion. (Mauritania 2023 Human Rights Report, p.16)

Sources Cited

• "BTI 2024 Country Report Mauritania." Bertelsmann Stiftung, 2024.

• "Climate, Peace and Security in Mauritania." United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel and Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, n.d.

• "Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2023: Mauritania." United States Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, n.d.

• "Europe, Beyond Its Southern Border." Center for Strategic and International Studies, 2024.

• "Mauritania: Freedom in the World 2024 Country Report." Freedom House, n.d.

• "Mauritania 2023 Human Rights Report." United States Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, n.d.

• "Mauritania - the latest target in EU migration control." Institute for Security Studies, 2024.

• "The Desert Powerhouse: Mauritania's Quest to Become the Capital of Green Hydrogen." SSRN, 2024.

• "Trump's Lesser-Known Deal of the Century? Resolving the Western Sahara Conflict." Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, 2025.

• "Weapons of the Weak, and of the Strong: Mauritanian Foreign Policies and the International Dimensions of Social Activism." African Futures, 2023.

• "Why Everyone Is Courting Mauritania." Foreign Policy, 2023.