Chad’s Break From France : Redefining Chad

Chad’s recent decision to end its defense agreement with France is more than a policy shift; it is a powerful statement of independence. Announced in late 2024, this move reflects the country’s determination to take charge of its future, shedding the lingering influence of its colonial past. By redefining its strategic alliances, Chad aims to align its partnerships with its own priorities and aspirations.

For decades, France maintained a significant military presence in Chad, However, frustration with French policies and rising anti French sentiment across the region made this relationship increasingly strained. President Mahamat Deby Itno, who took power after his father’s death in 2021, seems intent on building a broader network of alliances. Chad is now exploring partnerships with countries like Russia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting a shift toward diversification and self-reliance.

This step mirrors broader trends in the Sahel, where nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have also distanced themselves from France. The growing demand for sovereignty across the region signals a collective desire to redefine relationships with former colonial powers. Chad has made it clear, though, that this decision is not about severing ties with France altogether. Instead, it is a call to imagine the future, one where Chad takes the lead in shaping its own destiny while maintaining connections built on respect and mutual interests.