| NIGER Republic of Niger Republique du Niger Joined United Nations: 20 September 1960 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 03/05/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE AND HEAD OF GOVERNMENT |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Niamey
15,306,252 (July 2009 est.)
Mahamadou Danda
Interim Prime Minister since 23 February 2010
Interim Prime Minister since 23 February 2010
President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a
second term); second round of election last held 4 December 2004
President Tandja deposed by coup d'etat on 19 February 2010
Next scheduled election: TBA
second term); second round of election last held 4 December 2004
President Tandja deposed by coup d'etat on 19 February 2010
Next scheduled election: TBA
SELECTION PROCESS
Prime minister usually appointed by the president and shares
some executive responsibilities with the president however,
following the 19 February 2010 coup, Danda was appointed by
the Supreme Council for the Restoration of Democracy (CSRD)
Next scheduled election: TBA
some executive responsibilities with the president however,
following the 19 February 2010 coup, Danda was appointed by
the Supreme Council for the Restoration of Democracy (CSRD)
Next scheduled election: TBA
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Haoussa 55.4%, Djerma Sonrai 21%, Touareg 9.3%, Peuhl 8.5%, Kanouri Manga 4.7%, other 1.2% (2001 census)
| RELIGIONS |
Muslim 80%, other (includes indigenous beliefs and Christian) 20%
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Republic with 8 regions (regions, singular - region) includes 1 capital district (communite urbaine); Legal system is based on French civil
law system and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: president elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a second term); second round of election last held 4
December 2004 (next to be held December 2009); prime minister appointed by the president and shares some executive responsibilities
with the president. Deposed by coup d'etat on 19 February 2010 and interim President and Prime Minister appointed by the Supreme
Council for the Restoration of Democracy (CSRD)
Legislative: Unicameral National Assembly (113 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: last held 20 October 2009 (next to be held in 2014)
Judicial: State Court or Cour d'Etat; Court of Appeals or Cour d'Appel
law system and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: president elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a second term); second round of election last held 4
December 2004 (next to be held December 2009); prime minister appointed by the president and shares some executive responsibilities
with the president. Deposed by coup d'etat on 19 February 2010 and interim President and Prime Minister appointed by the Supreme
Council for the Restoration of Democracy (CSRD)
Legislative: Unicameral National Assembly (113 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: last held 20 October 2009 (next to be held in 2014)
Judicial: State Court or Cour d'Etat; Court of Appeals or Cour d'Appel
| LANGUAGES |
French (official), Hausa, Djerma
| BRIEF HISTORY |
Humans have lived in what is now Niger from the earliest times. 3 to 3.5 Million year old Australopithecus bahrelghazali remains
have been found in neighboring Chad. Considerable evidence indicates that about 60,000 years ago, humans inhabited what has
since become the desolate Sahara of northern Niger. Later, on what was then huge fertile grasslands, from at least 7,000 BCE there
was pastoralism, herding of sheep and goats, large settlements and pottery. Cattle were introduced to the Central Sahara (Ahaggar)
from 4,000 to 3,500 BCE. Remarkable rock paintings, many found in the Air Mountians, dated 3,500 to 2,500 BCE, portray
vegetation and animal presence rather different from modern expectations. As the Sahara dried after 2000 BCE, the north of Niger
became the desert it is today, with settlements and trade routes clinging to the Air in the north, the Kouar and shore of Lake Chad in
the west, and (apart for a scattering of oases) most people living along what is now the southern border with Nigeria and the
southwest of the country. By at least the fifth century BCE, Carthage and Egypt became terminals for West African gold, ivory, and
slaves trading salt, cloth, beads, and metal goods. With this trade, Niger was on the route between the empires of the Sahel and the
empires of the Mediterranean basin. Long before the arrival of French influence and control in the area, Niger was an important
economic crossroads, and the empires of Songhai, Mali, the Dendi Kingdom, Gao, and Kanem-Bornu, as well as a number of
Hausa states, claimed control over portions of the area. During recent centuries, the nomadic Tuareg formed large confederations,
pushed southward, and, siding with various Hausa states, clashed with the Fulani Empire of Sokoto, which had gained control of
much of the Hausa territory in the late 18th century. In the 19th century, contact with the West began when the first European
explorers--notably Mungo Park (British) and Heinrich Barth (German)--explored the area searching for the mouth of the Niger
River. Although French efforts at pacification began before 1900, dissident ethnic groups, especially the desert Tuareg, were not
subdued until 1922, when Niger became a French colony. Niger's colonial history and development parallel that of other French
West African territories. France administered her West African colonies through a governor general at Dakar, Senegal, and
governors in the individual territories, including Niger. In addition to conferring French citizenship on the inhabitants of the territories,
the 1946 French constitution provided for decentralization of power and limited participation in political life for local advisory
assemblies. A further revision in the organization of overseas territories occurred with the passage of the Overseas Reform Act (Loi
Cadre) of July 23, 1956, followed by reorganizational measures enacted by the French Parliament early in 1957. In addition to
removing voting inequalities, these laws provided for creation of governmental organs, assuring individual territories a large measure
of self-government. After the establishment of the Fifth French Republic, Niger became an autonomous state within the French
Community on December 4, 1958. Following full independence on August 3, 1960, however, membership was allowed to lapse.
For its first 14 years as an independent state, Niger was run by a single-party civilian regime under the presidency of Hamani Diori.
In 1974, a combination of devastating drought and accusations of rampant corruption resulted in a military coup which overthrew
the Diori regime. Col. Seyni Kountché and a small group of military ruled the country until Kountche's death in 1987. He was
succeeded by his Chief of Staff and cousin, Col. Ali Saibou, who released political prisoners, liberalized some of Niger's laws and
policies, and promulgated a new constitution. However, President Saibou's efforts to control political reforms failed in the face of
union and student demands to institute a multi-party democratic system. The Saibou regime acquiesced to these demands by the
end of 1990. New political parties and civic associations sprang up, and a National Conference was convened in July 1991 to
prepare the way for the adoption of a new constitution and the holding of free and fair elections. The debate was often contentious
and accusatory, but under the leadership of Prof. André Salifou, the conference developed consensus on the modalities of a
transition government. Niger sent hundreds of troops to the Coalition forces in the Gulf War in 1991. A transition government was
installed in November 1991 to manage the affairs of state until the institutions of the Third Republic were put in place in April 1993.
While the economy deteriorated over the course of the transition, certain accomplishments stand out, including the successful
conduct of a constitutional referendum; the adoption of key legislation such as the electoral and rural codes; and the holding of
several free, fair, and nonviolent nationwide elections. Freedom of the press flourished with the appearance of several new
independent newspapers. A coalition of parties in 1993 won the Presidential election for Mahamane Ousmane the CDS party
candidate. The agreement between the parties fell apart in 1994 leading to governmental paralysis as the CDS on its own no longer
had a majority in the assembly. Ousmane dissolved the legislature and called new legislative elections, but the MNSD party won the
largest group of seats, so Ousmane was compelled to appoint Hama Amadou of the MNSD as prime minister. As the culmination
of an initiative started in 1991, the government signed peace accords in April 1995 with all Tuareg and Toubou groups that had
been leading the Tuareg Rebellion since 1990 claiming they lacked attention and resources from the central government. The
government agreed to absorb some former rebels in the military and, with French assistance, help others return to a productive
civilian life. The paralysis of government between the President and the Prime Minister who no longer agreed gave Col. Ibrahim
Baré Maïnassara a rationale to overthrow the Third Republic and depose the first democratically elected president of Niger, on
January 27, 1996. While leading a military authority that ran the government (Conseil de Salut National) during a 6-month transition
period, Baré enlisted specialists to draft a new constitution for a Fourth Republic announced in May 1996. Baré organized a
Presidential election in June 1996. He ran against four other candidates, including Ousmane. Before voting had finished, Baré
dissolved the national electoral committee and appointed another, which announced him the winner with over 50% of the votes cast.
When his efforts to justify his coup and subsequent questionable election failed to convince donors to restore multilateral and
bilateral economic assistance, a desperate Baré ignored the international embargo on Libya seeking funds for Niger's economy. In
repeated violations of basic civil liberties by the regime, opposition leaders were imprisoned; journalists often arrested, beaten, and
deported by an unofficial militia composed of police and military; and independent media offices were looted and burned with
impunity. In April 1999, Baré was assassinated in a coup led by Maj. Daouda Malam Wanké who established a transitional
National Reconciliation Council to oversee the drafting of a constitution for a Fifth Republic with a French style semi-presidential
system. In votes that international observers found to be generally free and fair, the Nigerien electorate approved the new
constitution in July 1999 and held legislative and presidential elections in October and November 1999. Heading a MNSD/CDS
coalition, Tandja Mamadou won the presidency. The council transitioned to civilian rule in December 1999. The Second Tuareg
insurgency in Niger began in 2007. Tandja was deposed in a coup d'etat on 19 February 2010.
Source: Wikipedia: History of Niger
have been found in neighboring Chad. Considerable evidence indicates that about 60,000 years ago, humans inhabited what has
since become the desolate Sahara of northern Niger. Later, on what was then huge fertile grasslands, from at least 7,000 BCE there
was pastoralism, herding of sheep and goats, large settlements and pottery. Cattle were introduced to the Central Sahara (Ahaggar)
from 4,000 to 3,500 BCE. Remarkable rock paintings, many found in the Air Mountians, dated 3,500 to 2,500 BCE, portray
vegetation and animal presence rather different from modern expectations. As the Sahara dried after 2000 BCE, the north of Niger
became the desert it is today, with settlements and trade routes clinging to the Air in the north, the Kouar and shore of Lake Chad in
the west, and (apart for a scattering of oases) most people living along what is now the southern border with Nigeria and the
southwest of the country. By at least the fifth century BCE, Carthage and Egypt became terminals for West African gold, ivory, and
slaves trading salt, cloth, beads, and metal goods. With this trade, Niger was on the route between the empires of the Sahel and the
empires of the Mediterranean basin. Long before the arrival of French influence and control in the area, Niger was an important
economic crossroads, and the empires of Songhai, Mali, the Dendi Kingdom, Gao, and Kanem-Bornu, as well as a number of
Hausa states, claimed control over portions of the area. During recent centuries, the nomadic Tuareg formed large confederations,
pushed southward, and, siding with various Hausa states, clashed with the Fulani Empire of Sokoto, which had gained control of
much of the Hausa territory in the late 18th century. In the 19th century, contact with the West began when the first European
explorers--notably Mungo Park (British) and Heinrich Barth (German)--explored the area searching for the mouth of the Niger
River. Although French efforts at pacification began before 1900, dissident ethnic groups, especially the desert Tuareg, were not
subdued until 1922, when Niger became a French colony. Niger's colonial history and development parallel that of other French
West African territories. France administered her West African colonies through a governor general at Dakar, Senegal, and
governors in the individual territories, including Niger. In addition to conferring French citizenship on the inhabitants of the territories,
the 1946 French constitution provided for decentralization of power and limited participation in political life for local advisory
assemblies. A further revision in the organization of overseas territories occurred with the passage of the Overseas Reform Act (Loi
Cadre) of July 23, 1956, followed by reorganizational measures enacted by the French Parliament early in 1957. In addition to
removing voting inequalities, these laws provided for creation of governmental organs, assuring individual territories a large measure
of self-government. After the establishment of the Fifth French Republic, Niger became an autonomous state within the French
Community on December 4, 1958. Following full independence on August 3, 1960, however, membership was allowed to lapse.
For its first 14 years as an independent state, Niger was run by a single-party civilian regime under the presidency of Hamani Diori.
In 1974, a combination of devastating drought and accusations of rampant corruption resulted in a military coup which overthrew
the Diori regime. Col. Seyni Kountché and a small group of military ruled the country until Kountche's death in 1987. He was
succeeded by his Chief of Staff and cousin, Col. Ali Saibou, who released political prisoners, liberalized some of Niger's laws and
policies, and promulgated a new constitution. However, President Saibou's efforts to control political reforms failed in the face of
union and student demands to institute a multi-party democratic system. The Saibou regime acquiesced to these demands by the
end of 1990. New political parties and civic associations sprang up, and a National Conference was convened in July 1991 to
prepare the way for the adoption of a new constitution and the holding of free and fair elections. The debate was often contentious
and accusatory, but under the leadership of Prof. André Salifou, the conference developed consensus on the modalities of a
transition government. Niger sent hundreds of troops to the Coalition forces in the Gulf War in 1991. A transition government was
installed in November 1991 to manage the affairs of state until the institutions of the Third Republic were put in place in April 1993.
While the economy deteriorated over the course of the transition, certain accomplishments stand out, including the successful
conduct of a constitutional referendum; the adoption of key legislation such as the electoral and rural codes; and the holding of
several free, fair, and nonviolent nationwide elections. Freedom of the press flourished with the appearance of several new
independent newspapers. A coalition of parties in 1993 won the Presidential election for Mahamane Ousmane the CDS party
candidate. The agreement between the parties fell apart in 1994 leading to governmental paralysis as the CDS on its own no longer
had a majority in the assembly. Ousmane dissolved the legislature and called new legislative elections, but the MNSD party won the
largest group of seats, so Ousmane was compelled to appoint Hama Amadou of the MNSD as prime minister. As the culmination
of an initiative started in 1991, the government signed peace accords in April 1995 with all Tuareg and Toubou groups that had
been leading the Tuareg Rebellion since 1990 claiming they lacked attention and resources from the central government. The
government agreed to absorb some former rebels in the military and, with French assistance, help others return to a productive
civilian life. The paralysis of government between the President and the Prime Minister who no longer agreed gave Col. Ibrahim
Baré Maïnassara a rationale to overthrow the Third Republic and depose the first democratically elected president of Niger, on
January 27, 1996. While leading a military authority that ran the government (Conseil de Salut National) during a 6-month transition
period, Baré enlisted specialists to draft a new constitution for a Fourth Republic announced in May 1996. Baré organized a
Presidential election in June 1996. He ran against four other candidates, including Ousmane. Before voting had finished, Baré
dissolved the national electoral committee and appointed another, which announced him the winner with over 50% of the votes cast.
When his efforts to justify his coup and subsequent questionable election failed to convince donors to restore multilateral and
bilateral economic assistance, a desperate Baré ignored the international embargo on Libya seeking funds for Niger's economy. In
repeated violations of basic civil liberties by the regime, opposition leaders were imprisoned; journalists often arrested, beaten, and
deported by an unofficial militia composed of police and military; and independent media offices were looted and burned with
impunity. In April 1999, Baré was assassinated in a coup led by Maj. Daouda Malam Wanké who established a transitional
National Reconciliation Council to oversee the drafting of a constitution for a Fifth Republic with a French style semi-presidential
system. In votes that international observers found to be generally free and fair, the Nigerien electorate approved the new
constitution in July 1999 and held legislative and presidential elections in October and November 1999. Heading a MNSD/CDS
coalition, Tandja Mamadou won the presidency. The council transitioned to civilian rule in December 1999. The Second Tuareg
insurgency in Niger began in 2007. Tandja was deposed in a coup d'etat on 19 February 2010.
Source: Wikipedia: History of Niger
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking near last on the United Nations Development Fund index of human
development. It is a landlocked, Sub-Saharan nation, whose economy centers on subsistence crops, livestock, and some of the
world's largest uranium deposits. Drought cycles, desertification, and strong population growth have undercut the economy. Niger
shares a common currency, the CFA franc, and a common central bank, the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), with
seven other members of the West African Monetary Union. In December 2000, Niger qualified for enhanced debt relief under the
International Monetary Fund program for Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and concluded an agreement with the Fund on a
Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF). Debt relief provided under the enhanced HIPC initiative significantly reduces
Niger's annual debt service obligations, freeing funds for expenditures on basic health care, primary education, HIV/AIDS
prevention, rural infrastructure, and other programs geared at poverty reduction. In December 2005, Niger received 100%
multilateral debt relief from the IMF, which translates into the forgiveness of approximately US $86 million in debts to the IMF,
excluding the remaining assistance under HIPC. Nearly half of the government's budget is derived from foreign donor resources.
Future growth may be sustained by exploitation of oil, gold, coal, and other mineral resources. Uranium prices have increased
sharply in the last few years. A drought and locust infestation in 2005 led to food shortages for as many as 2.5 million Nigeriens.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Niger)
development. It is a landlocked, Sub-Saharan nation, whose economy centers on subsistence crops, livestock, and some of the
world's largest uranium deposits. Drought cycles, desertification, and strong population growth have undercut the economy. Niger
shares a common currency, the CFA franc, and a common central bank, the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), with
seven other members of the West African Monetary Union. In December 2000, Niger qualified for enhanced debt relief under the
International Monetary Fund program for Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and concluded an agreement with the Fund on a
Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF). Debt relief provided under the enhanced HIPC initiative significantly reduces
Niger's annual debt service obligations, freeing funds for expenditures on basic health care, primary education, HIV/AIDS
prevention, rural infrastructure, and other programs geared at poverty reduction. In December 2005, Niger received 100%
multilateral debt relief from the IMF, which translates into the forgiveness of approximately US $86 million in debts to the IMF,
excluding the remaining assistance under HIPC. Nearly half of the government's budget is derived from foreign donor resources.
Future growth may be sustained by exploitation of oil, gold, coal, and other mineral resources. Uranium prices have increased
sharply in the last few years. A drought and locust infestation in 2005 led to food shortages for as many as 2.5 million Nigeriens.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Niger)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
Politics of Niger takes place in a framework of a semi-presidential representative democratic republic, whereby the President of
Niger is head of state and the Prime Minister of Niger head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is
exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the National Assembly. The judiciary is
independent of the executive and the legislature.
The current legislature elected in December 2004 contains seven political parties. President Mamadou Tandja was re-elected in
December 2004 and reappointed Hama Amadou as Prime Minister. Mahamane Ousmane, the head of the CDS, was re-elected
President of the National Assembly (parliament) by his peers. The new second term government of the Fifth Republic took office on
30 December 2002. In August 2002, serious unrest within the military occurred in Niamey, Diffa, and Nguigmi, but the government
was able to restore order within several days. In June 2007, a no confidence vote against the government led to the fall of the Prime
Minister Hama Amadou and his ministers.
The constitution of December 1992 was revised by national referendum on 12 May 1996 and, again, by referendum, recised to the
current version on 18 July 1999. It restored the semi-presidential system of government of the December 1992 constitution (Third
Republic) in which the president of the republic, elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister named by
the president share executive power. As a reflection of Niger's increasing population, the unicameral National Assembly was
expanded in 2004 to 113 deputies elected for a 5 year term under a majority system of representation. Political parties must attain
at least 5% of the vote in order to gain a seat in the legislature.
Niger's new constitution restores the semi-presidential system of government of the December 1992 constitution (Third Republic) in
which the President of the Republic is elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister, named by the
president, share executive power however it was suspended on 19 February 2010 by the Council For the Restoration of
Democracy which toppled the government in a coup d'etat.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Niger
Niger is head of state and the Prime Minister of Niger head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is
exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the National Assembly. The judiciary is
independent of the executive and the legislature.
The current legislature elected in December 2004 contains seven political parties. President Mamadou Tandja was re-elected in
December 2004 and reappointed Hama Amadou as Prime Minister. Mahamane Ousmane, the head of the CDS, was re-elected
President of the National Assembly (parliament) by his peers. The new second term government of the Fifth Republic took office on
30 December 2002. In August 2002, serious unrest within the military occurred in Niamey, Diffa, and Nguigmi, but the government
was able to restore order within several days. In June 2007, a no confidence vote against the government led to the fall of the Prime
Minister Hama Amadou and his ministers.
The constitution of December 1992 was revised by national referendum on 12 May 1996 and, again, by referendum, recised to the
current version on 18 July 1999. It restored the semi-presidential system of government of the December 1992 constitution (Third
Republic) in which the president of the republic, elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister named by
the president share executive power. As a reflection of Niger's increasing population, the unicameral National Assembly was
expanded in 2004 to 113 deputies elected for a 5 year term under a majority system of representation. Political parties must attain
at least 5% of the vote in order to gain a seat in the legislature.
Niger's new constitution restores the semi-presidential system of government of the December 1992 constitution (Third Republic) in
which the President of the Republic is elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister, named by the
president, share executive power however it was suspended on 19 February 2010 by the Council For the Restoration of
Democracy which toppled the government in a coup d'etat.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Niger
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Libya claims about 25,000 sq km in a currently dormant dispute in the Tommo region; much of Benin-Niger boundary, including
tripoint with Nigeria, remains undemarcated; only Nigeria and Cameroon have heeded the Lake Chad Commission's admonition to
ratify the delimitation treaty which also includes the Chad-Niger and Niger-Nigeria boundaries
tripoint with Nigeria, remains undemarcated; only Nigeria and Cameroon have heeded the Lake Chad Commission's admonition to
ratify the delimitation treaty which also includes the Chad-Niger and Niger-Nigeria boundaries
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
None reported.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2008 Human Rights Report: Niger
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2008 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
February 25, 2009
Niger is a multiparty republic that restored its multiparty system in 1999 following coups in 1996 and 1999; it has a population estimated
at 14.8 million. In 2004 voters elected Mamadou Tandja to a second five-year presidential term in an election that international observers
deemed generally free and fair. Four parties joined the ruling coalition of the National Movement for the Development of Society
(MNSD) and the Democratic and Social Convention (CDS) to win a majority of national assembly seats. In February 2007 the Tuareg
rebel group Niger Movement for Justice (MNJ) launched a series of attacks against military and strategic installations in the north. The
frequency and intensity of attacks diminished at the end of 2008, but the government did not lift the state of alert declared in August
2007. While civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces, there were instances in which elements of
the security forces acted independently of government authority.
Government respect for human rights did not improve from the previous year. Human rights abuses included:
The MNJ committed arbitrary killings and other abuses.
Click here to read more »
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2008 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
February 25, 2009
Niger is a multiparty republic that restored its multiparty system in 1999 following coups in 1996 and 1999; it has a population estimated
at 14.8 million. In 2004 voters elected Mamadou Tandja to a second five-year presidential term in an election that international observers
deemed generally free and fair. Four parties joined the ruling coalition of the National Movement for the Development of Society
(MNSD) and the Democratic and Social Convention (CDS) to win a majority of national assembly seats. In February 2007 the Tuareg
rebel group Niger Movement for Justice (MNJ) launched a series of attacks against military and strategic installations in the north. The
frequency and intensity of attacks diminished at the end of 2008, but the government did not lift the state of alert declared in August
2007. While civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces, there were instances in which elements of
the security forces acted independently of government authority.
Government respect for human rights did not improve from the previous year. Human rights abuses included:
- extrajudicial killings and use of excessive force by security forces;
- poor jail and prison conditions;
- arbitrary arrest and detention;
- prolonged pretrial detention;
- executive interference in the judiciary;
- excessive use of force and other abuses in internal conflict;
- restrictions on press freedom;
- forcible dispersal of demonstrators;
- restrictions on freedom of movement;
- official corruption;
- societal discrimination and violence against women;
- female genital mutilation (FGM);
- trafficking in persons;
- the practice of slavery by some groups;
- child labor.
- Official impunity was a problem.
The MNJ committed arbitrary killings and other abuses.
Click here to read more »
18 June 2009
COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Fifty-first session
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations: Niger
A. Introduction
2. Although submitted with a significant delay, the Committee welcomes the frank and self-critical nature of the second periodic report
of the State party as well as the written replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/NER/Q/2/Add.1), and commends the fruitful dialogue held
with the high-level and multisectoral delegation, which allowed for a better understanding of the situation of children in the State party.
B. Follow-up measures and progress achieved by the State party
3. The Committee notes with appreciation the positive developments related to the implementation of the Convention, such as:
(a) Act No. 2003-05 of 13 June 2003 amending the Criminal Code and introducing new offences, including female genital mutilation,
genocide and the crime of slavery;
C. Principal subjects of concern and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation
(arts. 4, 42 and 44, para. 6, of the Convention)
Committee’s previous recommendations
5. The Committee welcomes efforts by the State party to implement the Committee’s concluding observations on the State party’s initial
report. Nevertheless, the Committee regrets that some of its concerns and recommendations have been insufficiently or only partly
addressed, including those related to the allocation of resources, the minimum age for marriage, birth registration, corporal punishment,
informal adoptions, street children, as well as child abuse and neglect.
6. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to address those recommendations from the concluding
observations of the initial report that have not yet been implemented or sufficiently implemented, and to provide adequate follow-up to the
recommendations contained in the present concluding observations on the second periodic report.
Click here to read more »
COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Fifty-first session
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations: Niger
A. Introduction
2. Although submitted with a significant delay, the Committee welcomes the frank and self-critical nature of the second periodic report
of the State party as well as the written replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/NER/Q/2/Add.1), and commends the fruitful dialogue held
with the high-level and multisectoral delegation, which allowed for a better understanding of the situation of children in the State party.
B. Follow-up measures and progress achieved by the State party
3. The Committee notes with appreciation the positive developments related to the implementation of the Convention, such as:
(a) Act No. 2003-05 of 13 June 2003 amending the Criminal Code and introducing new offences, including female genital mutilation,
genocide and the crime of slavery;
C. Principal subjects of concern and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation
(arts. 4, 42 and 44, para. 6, of the Convention)
Committee’s previous recommendations
5. The Committee welcomes efforts by the State party to implement the Committee’s concluding observations on the State party’s initial
report. Nevertheless, the Committee regrets that some of its concerns and recommendations have been insufficiently or only partly
addressed, including those related to the allocation of resources, the minimum age for marriage, birth registration, corporal punishment,
informal adoptions, street children, as well as child abuse and neglect.
6. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to address those recommendations from the concluding
observations of the initial report that have not yet been implemented or sufficiently implemented, and to provide adequate follow-up to the
recommendations contained in the present concluding observations on the second periodic report.
Click here to read more »
Freedom In The World 2009 Report
Political Rights Score: 3
Civil Liberties Score: 4
Status: Partly Free
Overview
A state of emergency remained in effect in the north during 2008, as fighting between the government and Tuareg rebels continued.
Separately, former prime minister Hama Amadou was detained in June on embezzlement charges, which some members of the ruling
party claimed were politically motivated.
In August 2007, the government imposed state of emergency in the vast northern Agadez region that was ultimately extended through
the end of the 2008. Libyan-led mediation efforts in August 2008 yielded a temporary cessation of hostilities, but clashes resumed in
October. Although clashes lessened in frequency by year’s end, the state of emergency remained in effect in the north.
Also during 2008, corruption allegations against former prime minister Hama Amadou created tensions within the MNSD. Amadou had
resigned in May 2007 after accusations that government ministers had misused public funds led to a vote of no confidence. In June
2008, legislators revoked Amadou’s immunity from prosecution, and he was arrested three days later on suspicion of embezzlement. He
and his supporters within the MNSD argued that the case was designed to prevent him from running for president in 2009, as he was
seen as Tandja’s likely successor. In October, three judges in Amadou’s trial were dismissed, forcing it to start again with new judges.
Niger remains one of the world’s poorest countries, and recurrent droughts, floods, and locust invasions increase the fragility of poor
rural households. Niger has received debt relief through the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, and in March 2008, the
government signed a $23 million agreement with the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation, which will fund programs to improve girls’
access to education, reduce corruption, and simplify the process of establishing businesses and accessing land. In June, the government
also signed a $5 billion deal with the Chinese National Petroleum Corporation to explore for oil and build a refinery and a pipeline in the
south, but the agreement was criticized for a lack of transparency. Niger continues to work with the U.S. government on
counterterrorism and security programs.
Niger is an electoral democracy. Observers considered the national polls held in 1999 and 2004 to be largely free and fair. The president
chooses the prime minister from a list of three candidates presented by the majority party or coalition in the unicameral National
Assembly. Of the legislature’s 113 members, 105 are elected by proportional representation in eight geographical districts, and 8 are
elected in single-member constituencies. All members serve five-year terms.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 3
Civil Liberties Score: 4
Status: Partly Free
Overview
A state of emergency remained in effect in the north during 2008, as fighting between the government and Tuareg rebels continued.
Separately, former prime minister Hama Amadou was detained in June on embezzlement charges, which some members of the ruling
party claimed were politically motivated.
In August 2007, the government imposed state of emergency in the vast northern Agadez region that was ultimately extended through
the end of the 2008. Libyan-led mediation efforts in August 2008 yielded a temporary cessation of hostilities, but clashes resumed in
October. Although clashes lessened in frequency by year’s end, the state of emergency remained in effect in the north.
Also during 2008, corruption allegations against former prime minister Hama Amadou created tensions within the MNSD. Amadou had
resigned in May 2007 after accusations that government ministers had misused public funds led to a vote of no confidence. In June
2008, legislators revoked Amadou’s immunity from prosecution, and he was arrested three days later on suspicion of embezzlement. He
and his supporters within the MNSD argued that the case was designed to prevent him from running for president in 2009, as he was
seen as Tandja’s likely successor. In October, three judges in Amadou’s trial were dismissed, forcing it to start again with new judges.
Niger remains one of the world’s poorest countries, and recurrent droughts, floods, and locust invasions increase the fragility of poor
rural households. Niger has received debt relief through the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, and in March 2008, the
government signed a $23 million agreement with the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation, which will fund programs to improve girls’
access to education, reduce corruption, and simplify the process of establishing businesses and accessing land. In June, the government
also signed a $5 billion deal with the Chinese National Petroleum Corporation to explore for oil and build a refinery and a pipeline in the
south, but the agreement was criticized for a lack of transparency. Niger continues to work with the U.S. government on
counterterrorism and security programs.
Niger is an electoral democracy. Observers considered the national polls held in 1999 and 2004 to be largely free and fair. The president
chooses the prime minister from a list of three candidates presented by the majority party or coalition in the unicameral National
Assembly. Of the legislature’s 113 members, 105 are elected by proportional representation in eight geographical districts, and 8 are
elected in single-member constituencies. All members serve five-year terms.
Click here to read more »
AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL
PUBLIC STATEMENT
19 February 2009
Niger – Mali: Amnesty International calls for the release of hostages reportedly held by Al Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb
Amnesty International is calling for the immediate release of two Canadian diplomats, one of them a UN envoy and their driver as well as
of four European tourists whose abduction a group calling itself al-Qa’ida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb has claimed responsibility
for on 18 February 2009. Amnesty International is concerned for the safety of these people following a statement posted on Al- Jazeera's
website in which a spokesman of this group said that "(The Mujahideen) reserves the right to deal with the six captives under Islamic
Sharia (law).”
The organization urges al-Qa’ida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb to treat these hostages humanely and not to subject them to threats
or cruel treatment or torture, and to cease taking and holding hostages.
Amnesty International stresses that holding of hostages, either civilians or armed forces’ members, violates the fundamental rights to life,
physical and mental integrity and liberty, and is expressly prohibited by international law.
The organization calls on al-Qa’ida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb which reportedly claimed responsibility for these hostage taking
to abide by fundamental principles derived from Article 3 common the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which reflects customary
international law, and which prohibits the taking of hostages, murder and cruel treatment and torture. Background
Two Canadians, UN envoy to Niger Robert Fowler and his colleague Louis Guay went missing outside Niamey in mid-December 2008
along with their driver, Soumana Moukaila, when returning from a visit to a gold mine operated by Canadian company Semafo.
On 22 January 2009, a Swiss couple, an elderly German woman and a British man were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen along the
border of Mali and Niger while returning from a Tuareg cultural festival in Mali.
Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, formerly known as the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC), has claimed a series of
attacks in the region in recent years, including the kidnapping last year of two Austrian tourists abducted in Tunisia who were later freed
in Mali.
Click here to read more »
PUBLIC STATEMENT
19 February 2009
Niger – Mali: Amnesty International calls for the release of hostages reportedly held by Al Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb
Amnesty International is calling for the immediate release of two Canadian diplomats, one of them a UN envoy and their driver as well as
of four European tourists whose abduction a group calling itself al-Qa’ida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb has claimed responsibility
for on 18 February 2009. Amnesty International is concerned for the safety of these people following a statement posted on Al- Jazeera's
website in which a spokesman of this group said that "(The Mujahideen) reserves the right to deal with the six captives under Islamic
Sharia (law).”
The organization urges al-Qa’ida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb to treat these hostages humanely and not to subject them to threats
or cruel treatment or torture, and to cease taking and holding hostages.
Amnesty International stresses that holding of hostages, either civilians or armed forces’ members, violates the fundamental rights to life,
physical and mental integrity and liberty, and is expressly prohibited by international law.
The organization calls on al-Qa’ida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb which reportedly claimed responsibility for these hostage taking
to abide by fundamental principles derived from Article 3 common the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which reflects customary
international law, and which prohibits the taking of hostages, murder and cruel treatment and torture. Background
Two Canadians, UN envoy to Niger Robert Fowler and his colleague Louis Guay went missing outside Niamey in mid-December 2008
along with their driver, Soumana Moukaila, when returning from a visit to a gold mine operated by Canadian company Semafo.
On 22 January 2009, a Swiss couple, an elderly German woman and a British man were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen along the
border of Mali and Niger while returning from a Tuareg cultural festival in Mali.
Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, formerly known as the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC), has claimed a series of
attacks in the region in recent years, including the kidnapping last year of two Austrian tourists abducted in Tunisia who were later freed
in Mali.
Click here to read more »
African Civil Society Urges African States Parties to the Rome Statute to Reaffirm Their Commitment to the ICC
July 30, 2009
On 3 July 2009 the African Union (AU) agreed that its members should withhold cooperation from the International Criminal Court
(ICC) in the arrest and surrender of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. The court issued its arrest warrant for President al-Bashir on 4
March 2009 for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur.
The AU's decision threatens to block justice for victims of the worst crimes committed on the continent. It is inconsistent with article 4
of the AU's constitutive act that rejects impunity, as well as the treaty obligations of the 30 African governments that ratified the Rome
Statute of the ICC. The decision also undermines the consensus reached by African ICC States Parties at a meeting in Addis Ababa in
June 2009.
Recognizing our obligation to help protect human rights and uphold the rule of law, we, the undersigned civil society organizations,
appeal to African ICC States Parties to reaffirm their support for the ICC and their commitment to abide by their obligations under the
Rome Statute, particularly in relation to the arrest and transfer of the President of Sudan to the ICC.
The ICC was created to bring accountability for the most serious crimes of international concern: genocide, war crimes and crimes
against humanity. African governments, together with civil society, played an active role in establishing the court and African
governments were among the founding ratifiers of the Rome Statute.
A majority of African countries are now Parties to the ICC: Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad,
Comoros, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia,
Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. In
ratifying the Rome Statute, these states signaled their dedication to cooperate with the ICC to defend the rights of victims and to ensure
that the perpetrators of the most serious crimes known to humankind, whoever they might be, are brought to justice.
Click here to read more »
July 30, 2009
On 3 July 2009 the African Union (AU) agreed that its members should withhold cooperation from the International Criminal Court
(ICC) in the arrest and surrender of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. The court issued its arrest warrant for President al-Bashir on 4
March 2009 for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur.
The AU's decision threatens to block justice for victims of the worst crimes committed on the continent. It is inconsistent with article 4
of the AU's constitutive act that rejects impunity, as well as the treaty obligations of the 30 African governments that ratified the Rome
Statute of the ICC. The decision also undermines the consensus reached by African ICC States Parties at a meeting in Addis Ababa in
June 2009.
Recognizing our obligation to help protect human rights and uphold the rule of law, we, the undersigned civil society organizations,
appeal to African ICC States Parties to reaffirm their support for the ICC and their commitment to abide by their obligations under the
Rome Statute, particularly in relation to the arrest and transfer of the President of Sudan to the ICC.
The ICC was created to bring accountability for the most serious crimes of international concern: genocide, war crimes and crimes
against humanity. African governments, together with civil society, played an active role in establishing the court and African
governments were among the founding ratifiers of the Rome Statute.
A majority of African countries are now Parties to the ICC: Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad,
Comoros, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia,
Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. In
ratifying the Rome Statute, these states signaled their dedication to cooperate with the ICC to defend the rights of victims and to ensure
that the perpetrators of the most serious crimes known to humankind, whoever they might be, are brought to justice.
Click here to read more »
February 22, 2010, 07:13
Niger junta pledges constitution
Niger's military junta is "eager" to return the country to civilian rule, Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the executive-secretary of the Economic
Community of West African States, has said.
Mr Chambas visited the West African nation to meet the leaders of a junta that took power on February 18th after they ousted President
Mamadou Tandja and dissolved his government and the constitution. The remarks by Chambas, whose organisation groups 15 states,
were broadcast today on SAFM, a Johannesburg-based broadcaster.
President Tandja and former prime minister Ali Badjo Gamatie are being detained by the junta at an undisclosed location, Colonel Djibrilla
Hamidou Hima, a spokesman for the junta, told reporters yesterday in the capital, Niamey.
President Tandja is being kept in "very good conditions," Mr Hima said, without elaborating.
Last week's coup came after Mr Tandja, who has been in power since 1999, dissolved parliament in May and assumed emergency
powers after the Constitutional Court rejected his call for a referendum to change the constitution and eliminate term limits.
In July, he disbanded the court after it ruled a third time against his plans to serve a third term. Civil society organisations in Niger want
the junta to indict Mr Tandja on charges of "high treason and breaching national security," Marou Amadou, president of the United Front
for the Safeguarding of Democratic Gains, said in a statement on Saturday.
The African Union suspended Niger from the continental body yesterday in response to the coup. Niger won't be able to participate in
African Union activities until the restoration of constitutional order in the country, according to a statement from the AU's Peace and
Security Council sent to reporters yesterday. AU Peace and Security Commissioner Ramtane Lamamra will meet with the coup leaders in
Niamey, the statement said.
The junta, led by Salou Djibo, plans to hold elections after it stabilises the situation in Niger, Agence-France Presse reported yesterday,
citing Mr Hima.
Click here to read more »
Niger junta pledges constitution
Niger's military junta is "eager" to return the country to civilian rule, Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the executive-secretary of the Economic
Community of West African States, has said.
Mr Chambas visited the West African nation to meet the leaders of a junta that took power on February 18th after they ousted President
Mamadou Tandja and dissolved his government and the constitution. The remarks by Chambas, whose organisation groups 15 states,
were broadcast today on SAFM, a Johannesburg-based broadcaster.
President Tandja and former prime minister Ali Badjo Gamatie are being detained by the junta at an undisclosed location, Colonel Djibrilla
Hamidou Hima, a spokesman for the junta, told reporters yesterday in the capital, Niamey.
President Tandja is being kept in "very good conditions," Mr Hima said, without elaborating.
Last week's coup came after Mr Tandja, who has been in power since 1999, dissolved parliament in May and assumed emergency
powers after the Constitutional Court rejected his call for a referendum to change the constitution and eliminate term limits.
In July, he disbanded the court after it ruled a third time against his plans to serve a third term. Civil society organisations in Niger want
the junta to indict Mr Tandja on charges of "high treason and breaching national security," Marou Amadou, president of the United Front
for the Safeguarding of Democratic Gains, said in a statement on Saturday.
The African Union suspended Niger from the continental body yesterday in response to the coup. Niger won't be able to participate in
African Union activities until the restoration of constitutional order in the country, according to a statement from the AU's Peace and
Security Council sent to reporters yesterday. AU Peace and Security Commissioner Ramtane Lamamra will meet with the coup leaders in
Niamey, the statement said.
The junta, led by Salou Djibo, plans to hold elections after it stabilises the situation in Niger, Agence-France Presse reported yesterday,
citing Mr Hima.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM FRENCH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
February 11, 2010
Joint Statement ANDDH / FIDH on the sociopolitical situation in Niger
Niger: Democracy confiscated
The Nigerian Association for the Defense of Human Rights (ANDDH), has released today its report submitted by the International
Federation of Human Rights (FIDH), entitled "Niger: Democracy confiscated, which is synthesis conditions of conduct of the
referendum process and election.
On this occasion, our organizations reminder that despite their constant calls for respect for texts that the people of Niger was freely
given, the process of questioning the democratic gains in Niger has continued, creating the climate of political tension experienced today
by the Nigerian population.
While the Nigerian citizens were preparing to go to the polls in December 2009 to elect a new President of the Republic (Constitution of
Niger prohibiting the Chairman to stand for a third term), President Tandja Mamadou has decided otherwise. With the goal to extend his
term of 3 years, the President has unilaterally decided to revise the Constitution through a referendum that at least six (6) months from
the end of his mandate.
To achieve its plan, the President dissolved the Parliament and the Constitutional Court opposed the revision and was improperly granted
full powers (using Article 53) to prohibit any expression of opposition and legitimize the repression of dissent; for ANDDH and FIDH,
the holding of the referendum was illegal.
It is in this context of constitutional coup that ANDDH decided to investigate the circumstances of the conduct of the referendum
process and observe the elections.
The results of these investigations and observations have revealed serious irregularities.
The referendum investigators ANDDH noted the following deficiencies:
- Arbitrary arrests of defenders of human rights and members of political opposition;
- A massive and illegal involvement of administrative authorities and customary to call people to vote "Yes";
- Vote-buying;
- Threats against the traditional leaders who would fight not campaign for the "YES";
- The vote of minors and the overwhelming vote by testimony;
Click here to read more »
February 11, 2010
Joint Statement ANDDH / FIDH on the sociopolitical situation in Niger
Niger: Democracy confiscated
The Nigerian Association for the Defense of Human Rights (ANDDH), has released today its report submitted by the International
Federation of Human Rights (FIDH), entitled "Niger: Democracy confiscated, which is synthesis conditions of conduct of the
referendum process and election.
On this occasion, our organizations reminder that despite their constant calls for respect for texts that the people of Niger was freely
given, the process of questioning the democratic gains in Niger has continued, creating the climate of political tension experienced today
by the Nigerian population.
While the Nigerian citizens were preparing to go to the polls in December 2009 to elect a new President of the Republic (Constitution of
Niger prohibiting the Chairman to stand for a third term), President Tandja Mamadou has decided otherwise. With the goal to extend his
term of 3 years, the President has unilaterally decided to revise the Constitution through a referendum that at least six (6) months from
the end of his mandate.
To achieve its plan, the President dissolved the Parliament and the Constitutional Court opposed the revision and was improperly granted
full powers (using Article 53) to prohibit any expression of opposition and legitimize the repression of dissent; for ANDDH and FIDH,
the holding of the referendum was illegal.
It is in this context of constitutional coup that ANDDH decided to investigate the circumstances of the conduct of the referendum
process and observe the elections.
The results of these investigations and observations have revealed serious irregularities.
The referendum investigators ANDDH noted the following deficiencies:
- Arbitrary arrests of defenders of human rights and members of political opposition;
- A massive and illegal involvement of administrative authorities and customary to call people to vote "Yes";
- Vote-buying;
- Threats against the traditional leaders who would fight not campaign for the "YES";
- The vote of minors and the overwhelming vote by testimony;
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM FRENCH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
February 19, 2010
SITUATION NIAMEY
According to the information that we had this morning, hours after the seizure of power by "The Supreme Council for the Restoration of
Democracy (CSRD), all is calm in Niamey. The city seems dead. The curfew was held yesterday evening from 18h for an indefinite
period. The air and land borders were closed, we hope that for 2 or 3 days ... The French and Europeans who currently reside in
Niamey, for various reasons, remain in their premises for security ....
Coup d'état in Niger 5
AFP / February 19, 2010 09h14
Niger: African Union (AU) "condemns the seizure of power by force"
ADDIS ABABA - The President of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Jean Ping, has "condemned the taking of power by force
in Niger" and demanded a "quick return to constitutional order," said a statement sent AFP Friday.
"The President of the Commission (AU) condemned the seizure of power by force intervened in Niger," it said.
"Ping is following with concern the developments of the situation in Niger," it said.
"It is in close contact with the President of the Commission of ECOWAS (Economic Community of States of West Africa), as well as
other relevant international actors.
He recalled that the texts of the AU "consistently condemned any unconstitutional change" and therefore "the taking of power by force
intervened in Niger."
He urged "a rapid return to constitutional order".
The army took power in Niger Thursday, deposing President Mamadou Tandja and declaring the government "dissolved".
In Agadez everything is calm, there has been no event, life goes on normally, and so much better for all people .....
Click here to read more>>
February 19, 2010
SITUATION NIAMEY
According to the information that we had this morning, hours after the seizure of power by "The Supreme Council for the Restoration of
Democracy (CSRD), all is calm in Niamey. The city seems dead. The curfew was held yesterday evening from 18h for an indefinite
period. The air and land borders were closed, we hope that for 2 or 3 days ... The French and Europeans who currently reside in
Niamey, for various reasons, remain in their premises for security ....
Coup d'état in Niger 5
AFP / February 19, 2010 09h14
Niger: African Union (AU) "condemns the seizure of power by force"
ADDIS ABABA - The President of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Jean Ping, has "condemned the taking of power by force
in Niger" and demanded a "quick return to constitutional order," said a statement sent AFP Friday.
"The President of the Commission (AU) condemned the seizure of power by force intervened in Niger," it said.
"Ping is following with concern the developments of the situation in Niger," it said.
"It is in close contact with the President of the Commission of ECOWAS (Economic Community of States of West Africa), as well as
other relevant international actors.
He recalled that the texts of the AU "consistently condemned any unconstitutional change" and therefore "the taking of power by force
intervened in Niger."
He urged "a rapid return to constitutional order".
The army took power in Niger Thursday, deposing President Mamadou Tandja and declaring the government "dissolved".
In Agadez everything is calm, there has been no event, life goes on normally, and so much better for all people .....
Click here to read more>>
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| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
Current situation: Niger is a source, transit, and destination country for children and women trafficked for forced labor and sexual
exploitation; caste-based slavery practices, rooted in ancestral master-slave relationships, continue in isolated areas of the country -
an estimated 8,800 to 43,000 Nigeriens live under conditions of traditional slavery; children are trafficked within Niger for forced
begging, forced labor in gold mines, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and possibly for forced labor in agriculture and stone
quarries; women and children from neighboring states are trafficked to and through Niger for domestic servitude, sexual
exploitation, forced labor in mines and on farms, and as mechanics and welders
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Niger is on the Tier 2 Watch List for its failure to provide evidence of increasing efforts to
eliminate trafficking in 2007; in particular, measures to combat and eliminate traditional slavery practices were weak; the
government's overall law enforcement efforts have stalled from 2006; while efforts to protect child trafficking victims were steady,
the government failed to provide services to or rescue adult victims subjected to traditional slavery practices, and made poor efforts
to educate the public about traditional slavery practices in general (2008)
exploitation; caste-based slavery practices, rooted in ancestral master-slave relationships, continue in isolated areas of the country -
an estimated 8,800 to 43,000 Nigeriens live under conditions of traditional slavery; children are trafficked within Niger for forced
begging, forced labor in gold mines, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and possibly for forced labor in agriculture and stone
quarries; women and children from neighboring states are trafficked to and through Niger for domestic servitude, sexual
exploitation, forced labor in mines and on farms, and as mechanics and welders
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Niger is on the Tier 2 Watch List for its failure to provide evidence of increasing efforts to
eliminate trafficking in 2007; in particular, measures to combat and eliminate traditional slavery practices were weak; the
government's overall law enforcement efforts have stalled from 2006; while efforts to protect child trafficking victims were steady,
the government failed to provide services to or rescue adult victims subjected to traditional slavery practices, and made poor efforts
to educate the public about traditional slavery practices in general (2008)
Salou Djibo
Coup Leader and President of the Council for
the Restoration of Democracy
since 19 February 2010
Coup Leader and President of the Council for
the Restoration of Democracy
since 19 February 2010
