Niamey: On July 26, 2023, Niger was thrown into political turmoil when a coup d'état was announced on state television, following the detention of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum by the presidential guard. This upheaval was led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, supported by elements of the nation's armed forces.
According to Deutsche Welle, General Tchiani justified the coup by pointing to growing insecurity, harsh economic conditions, and what he described as excessive influence from Western powers, particularly France, the country's former colonial ruler. Two years after the coup, the effects on Niger's political and social landscape continue to unfold, raising concerns about the country's future.
The current leadership in Niger has resulted in significant job losses within the nonprofit sector. Many nongovernmental organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), have been forced to close their operations, affecting more than 2 million people impacted by armed conflict. Souley, a 35-year-old former nutrition researcher, expressed his difficulties after losing his job. Mahamane, 32, shared a similar experience, citing irregular funds and halted activities as reasons for his unemployment. The West African Center for Counter Extremism has noted the constricted space for civil society work, exacerbating job losses.
Niger also grapples with high levels of youth unemployment. The International Labor Organization estimated a 23% unemployment rate among Nigeriens aged 15 to 29 in 2023, making it one of the highest in Africa. This economic strain adds to the challenges faced by the population under the current regime.
Human rights abuses have been a significant concern since the coup. Rights groups, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, accuse the junta of suppressing freedom of the press and expression. Ilaria Allegrozzi from Human Rights Watch highlighted the authorities' intolerance and crackdown on opposition and media, rejecting a transition back to civilian rule. Former President Bazoum and other officials remain arbitrarily detained without due process.
Amnesty International's 2025 report criticized Niger's violations of human rights, particularly the right to information and freedom of expression. Despite the release of some detainees, many remain imprisoned on politically motivated charges. The suspension of the Press House in January 2024 further underscores the shrinking space for media freedom.
Prospects for a return to civilian rule remain uncertain. In March, General Tchiani was sworn in for a five-year term, replacing the constitution with a new charter. This move signals an extended military rule, with some experts predicting a longer tenure than initially expected. Efforts by ECOWAS to facilitate a transition back to civilian governance in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have yet to yield results.