Khabenskaya E.O. Senegal and Guinea-Bissau: the Casamance conflict viewpoint (1959-1998).

Abstract: This article explores the situation is Casamance (a southern province of Senegal, which gravitates towards Guinea-Bissau, both culturally and historically), which, across several decades, is a major influencing factor. The author's attention is focused on political, ideological and cultural determinants of the tensions between the two countries. The main cause for those tensions, according to the author, are fundamental differences of the ideological values, and thus, political orientations of the ruling elites of Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. The intensity of the Casamance conflict, according to the author, is explained by the transparency of the state borders, and the social, cultural, linguistic and confessional kinship of the tribal groups (Diola, Balante, Mandingo), living in adjacent territories. Using the method of historical reconstruction, the author analyzes the dynamics of the relations between the two neighboring countries of the West African region in the context of the prolonged conflict in Casamance - the southern Senegalese province, bordering on the Guinea-Bissau and claims to secession. The author concludes that the nature of relations between the two countries largely depended on their domestic situation: Guinea-Bissau, which is constantly in a "fever" of military coups and leadership changes, has demonstrated an inconsistent position towards the separatist movement in Casamance. However, the mutual problems with security and control over the border areas of the two countries, the leaders were forced to overcome ideological differences and cooperate against the separatists.  

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