EU Names Danish Diplomat as New Special Representative for Sahel
EU Names Danish Diplomat as New Special Representative for Sahel

EU Names Danish Diplomat as New Special Representative for Sahel

By Mintesinot Nigussie  |  September 2, 2026

The European Union has appointed Danish diplomat Birgitte Nygaard Markussen as its new Special Representative for the Sahel, giving her responsibility for strengthening the bloc’s political engagement with a region facing persistent security, governance and humanitarian challenges.

Markussen began her 12-month mandate on September 1, succeeding João Cravinho, who had held the position since November 2024.

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Her appointment comes as the EU implements its renewed approach to the Sahel, covering Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger as well as neighbouring countries.

As the EU’s senior political interlocutor for the region, Markussen will support EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in promoting peace, security, stability and sustainable development. She will also lead political dialogue with governments and regional partners and seek to improve coordination across the EU’s diplomatic, security and development efforts.

The EU said Markussen will work with Sahel governments, neighbouring states, regional organisations, the United Nations, African Union and other international partners on conflict prevention and resolution and regional cooperation.

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Her appointment brings extensive African and EU diplomatic experience to the role. Markussen currently serves as Denmark’s Special Envoy to the Sahel and Great Lakes.

From 2016 to 2023, she held senior positions at the European External Action Service, including Head of the EU Delegation to the African Union and EU Ambassador to the UN Economic Commission for Africa.

She previously served as Denmark’s ambassador to Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad and the Central African Republic and as Director for Africa at Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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The EU’s engagement with the Sahel has become more challenging in recent years as political transitions and shifting alliances have complicated relations between European governments and several countries in the region.

Markussen’s mandate will run until August 31, 2027. She is one of 11 EU Special Representatives supporting the work of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Source: FSX Business News