There are numerous significant conflicts that often receive little media attention, overshadowed by larger geopolitical issues. Here are a few of the most pressing conflicts that tend to fly under the radar:
Cameroon – Anglophone Crisis: Since 2016, tensions between the English-speaking minority in Cameroon’s northwest and southwest regions and the French-speaking central government have escalated into violent conflict. The separatist movement in these regions seeks independence from Cameroon, resulting in deadly clashes, displacement, and human rights abuses. Media coverage remains limited, partly due to restricted access.
Yemen Civil War: While not entirely unnoticed, the war in Yemen rarely receives sustained global attention. Since 2015, Yemen has been mired in a brutal civil war involving Houthi rebels, the Saudi-led coalition, and other regional players. It has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with widespread famine, displacement, and ongoing violence.
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – Eastern Conflict: The DRC has endured decades of instability, particularly in its eastern regions, where armed groups clash over resources, land, and power. This conflict has fuelled a humanitarian disaster, with millions displaced and facing violence, yet it often lacks visibility despite its profound human impact.
Myanmar – Ethnic Armed Conflicts: In addition to the Rohingya crisis, Myanmar has been dealing with various ethnic insurgencies for decades. Multiple armed ethnic groups have sought autonomy or independence, with clashes escalating following the military coup in 2021. The resulting violence has led to severe human rights abuses, including attacks on civilians and widespread displacement.
Central African Republic (CAR): The CAR has faced internal conflict since a rebellion in 2013 toppled the government, igniting violence between various rebel factions, militias, and government forces. Compounded by ethnic and religious tensions, this conflict has left the population in dire straits with limited access to resources and security.
Kurdish Conflict in Türkiye, Syria, and Iraq: The Kurdish population, spread across Türkiye, Syria, Iraq, and Iran, has long sought greater autonomy and recognition. Türkiye, in particular, has been engaged in a protracted conflict with Kurdish groups like the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party). This conflict sees frequent clashes but is often underreported outside the region.
Ethiopia – Oromia and Somali Regions: While Ethiopia’s Tigray War has received attention, other areas like Oromia have experienced violence due to clashes between ethnic Oromo groups and the Ethiopian government. Similarly, border conflicts between the Somali and Oromia regions have displaced thousands.
Mozambique – Insurgency in Cabo Delgado: Since 2017, Mozambique’s northern province of Cabo Delgado has faced an insurgency led by a group linked to ISIS. The violence has driven many residents from their homes and attracted military intervention from neighbouring countries. Despite its severity, this conflict often receives minimal global media attention.
These conflicts highlight significant humanitarian issues, resource struggles, ethnic tensions, and geopolitical intricacies. Their lack of visibility is often due to limited media access, geopolitical sidelining, and competing international priorities.