In light of changing political paradigms in the wake of military coups in 2020–2023, the present research examines the changing opportunities for peace negotiations in the Central Sahel, focusing on Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The study critically analyzes three major areas of discourse: regional diplomatic engagement, negotiations with jihadist insurgents, and women’s involvement in conflict resolution processes. It does this by drawing on expert interviews and roundtable discussions that took place between late 2024 and mid-2025. It places in perspective the fall of liberal frameworks for peacebuilding and the emergence of sovereignist strategies that reject Western-led stabilization initiatives and place a higher priority on military fixes. The research emphasizes the need to reevaluate inclusive mechanisms for lasting peace in light of shifting political circumstances, the fragmented character of existing dialogue initiatives, and the continued existence of informal and localized negotiating channels.