Niger’s Military Authorities Fail to Uphold Human Rights Following Coup

Amnesty International’s report reveals that Niger’s military authorities have compromised human rights and civil liberties since the July 2023 coup. Notable violations include arbitrary detentions of high-profile figures, suppression of media, and infringements on freedom of expression, raising serious concerns about the rule of law and governance in Niger.

In a recent report, Amnesty International highlights that Niger’s military-led authorities are failing to uphold their commitment to human rights following the coup in July 2023. The report titled “Niger: Threatened and Brought to Heel: Human Rights and Civic Space under pressure since the 26 July Coup” details a decline in civil liberties, including arbitrary detentions and violations of civil and political rights.

The report reveals that prominent figures such as former President Mohamed Bazoum and various former officials, journalists, and human rights advocates have been subjected to arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances. Amnesty International asserts that these actions directly contradict the Nigerien authorities’ promises to uphold the rule of law.

Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s Interim Regional Director, spoke of the authorities’ failure: “Our report shows that they have clearly failed, with a sharp escalation of human rights violations since the coup. They must now keep their commitment.”

Following the coup, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland suspended the 2010 Constitution while claiming adherence to the principles of democracy and human rights. Nonetheless, Sivieude stated, “Despite the guarantees given by the new Nigerien authorities, human rights have been trampled in law and practice.”

Amnesty International further noted that despite a judicial ruling in December 2023 calling for the release of detained individuals, including Bazoum, the government continues to suppress dissent. The CNSP has impeded the operations of political parties and reinstated punitive measures against defamation.

The suppression extends to freedom of expression, with numerous journalists detained and media organizations silenced since the coup. The state’s actions have contributed to widespread self-censorship among the media and civil society. Sivieude emphasized the need for adherence to international treaties designed to protect rights, calling for the immediate release of those wrongfully imprisoned.

Amnesty International communicated its findings preliminarily with the Nigerien authorities on February 13, 2025, but at the time of report finalization, no responses had been provided from the authorities concerned.

The situation in Niger underscores a profound regression in the safeguarding of human rights and civil liberties following the military coup. The alarming reports of arbitrary detentions, suppression of the press, and curtailment of political freedoms demand urgent attention from the international community. Amnesty International calls upon Nigerien authorities to fulfill their commitments to human rights and to resume respect for democratic principles.

Original Source: www.amnesty.org