France has taken the decision to suspend all development aid and budgetary support to Niger in response to the recent military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, the French foreign ministry announced on Saturday.
The French government is urging for an immediate return to constitutional order in Niger and the reinstatement of President Bazoum, who was democratically elected. The suspension of aid comes as a strong response to the political instability in the country.
Niger, situated in the Sahel region, is facing significant challenges due to its high demographic growth rate and vulnerability to instability and extremist attacks. As one of the poorest nations in the world, Niger has been receiving development assistance from various countries, including France.
In 2021, the French Development Agency committed 97 million euros to support projects in Niger, aiming to address the country’s pressing development needs.
French President Emmanuel Macron, during his visit to Papua New Guinea, condemned the coup in Niger, emphasizing its potential risks for the entire region. He demanded the immediate release of President Bazoum, who has been under confinement in his official residence since the coup occurred on Wednesday.
Niger has been a crucial ally for France in the Sahel region, which has been grappling with ongoing instability, insecurity, and extremist activities. France previously had military operations against extremism in Mali but withdrew its forces earlier this year following demands from the junta leader in Bamako.
Currently, France has 1,500 troops stationed in Niger, who work in collaboration with the Nigerien army to combat security threats.
The military coup in Niamey marks the third such event in the region since 2020, following similar instances in Mali and Burkina Faso. The continuous political instability and coups in the region have raised concerns about the prospects for peace and democratic governance.
