Since 2017, Cameroon has been embroiled in the Anglophone Crisis, a conflict rooted in the historical marginalization of its English-speaking regions. The crisis began when peaceful protests by lawyers and teachers in the Northwest and Southwest regions were met with violent repression by government forces. This response ignited a separatist movement seeking the creation of an independent state called Ambazonia, leading to armed confrontations and widespread instability.
The conflict has had devastating humanitarian consequences. According to the United Nations, over 700,000 people have been internally displaced, and thousands have lost their lives. Schools have been closed, healthcare services disrupted, and entire communities have been uprooted. Despite the severity of the situation, the crisis has received limited international attention, often overshadowed by other global conflicts.
Addressing the Anglophone Crisis requires a multifaceted approach that includes genuine dialogue between the Cameroonian government and separatist leaders, as well as increased international engagement. As a researcher specializing in African conflicts, I emphasize the importance of acknowledging and addressing the root causes of such crises to foster long-term peace and stability. The Anglophone Crisis serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of systemic marginalization and the urgent need for inclusive governance.
