The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step toward imposing sanctions on the new military rulers in Niger, who ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in July of this year.
In a statement issued today, the EU Council of Foreign Ministers confirmed their agreement on a special sanctions framework targeting those involved in the military coup in Niger.
The statement read: “Today, the Council adopted a framework for restrictive measures concerning the situation in Niger. This decision demonstrates the EU’s determination to penalize individuals who undermine stability, democracy, and the rule of law in Niger and pose a threat to peace and security in the region.”
Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, described this move as a clear message that military coups come with consequences.
Previously, the EU had expressed its readiness to support actions against Niger following sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), including financial restrictions. To achieve this goal, EU foreign ministers decided to establish a separate sanctions regime to take action against coup plotters. This regime includes asset freezes, bans on financial transactions involving individuals and entities, as well as travel bans.
Following the military coup, the European Union had suspended security cooperation with Niger and halted financial assistance. The coup leaders had claimed that their actions were driven by a desire to address the country’s deteriorating economic and security situation.
