The situation in Niger is alarming, with West African leaders part of ECOWAS demanding the restoration of the democratically elected President within a week, or face potential military action. France and the US have also expressed concerns, warning of aid and military ties cut. The coup has caught many by surprise, exacerbating the already complex geopolitical landscape in the region. Following the gathering of coup supporters outside the French Embassy in Niamey on Sunday, where French flags were burned, and demands for the withdrawal of French troops were made, President Emmanuel Macron responded with a stern warning.
Fernando Aguiar, BIC's Senior Advisor, voiced his deep concerns over the crisis, highlighting how anti-western sentiments are deeply rooted in the country's colonial past, especially towards France. He emphasized that such sentiments have fueled support for the coup and further divided the region. France's past and present actions in the region exemplify the complexities and power dynamics rooted in post-colonial relations. France’s political, economic, and military involvement in Niger have been deeply entangled with historical legacies of colonialism, perpetuating a sense of domination and control. It is worth noting that Niger's uranium exploitation by France stands as a stark example of neocolonial extractivist practices. Shockingly, about one in every three lightbulbs in France is powered by Niger's uranium, while most of the country lacks access to electricity. This highlights the continuity of France's colonial practices in the country, raising concerns about unequal relations and resource exploitation.
Moreover, Aguiar pointed out that Russia's growing influence in Africa is creating new geopolitical challenges. “The presence of Russian flags at the coup demonstrations reflects how Russia is positioning itself as an emblem of anti-Western sentiment in parts of Africa. This, in turn, is creating openings for Russia to expand its influence and further increase division in the region.”
The crisis in Niger has significant geopolitical implications at both regional and global levels. West African leaders' demand for the reinstatement of the democratically elected President emphasizes the importance of stability and democratic governance in the region. Despite efforts to address the crisis, several shortcomings persist. A lack of coordination between ECOWAS and the Africa Union is evident, with the latter proposing a two-week deadline, potentially causing dissonance. Additionally, three ECOWAS members are governed by coup leaders, posing division risks. Finally, Chad's constitutional coup leader Déby involved in negotiations with another coup leader, Tchiani, further erodes credibility for a return to democracy. These risks of internal division opens the ground for Islamist militants. As the country grapples with political upheaval and uncertainty, it creates a power vacuum that extremist groups may seek to capitalize on.
As the situation unfolds, the BIC strongly emphasizes the significance of adopting a localized approach in addressing the crisis in Niger. BIC advocates for meaningful dialogue that engages local stakeholders, including communities, leaders, and civil society, to find sustainable solutions that respect Niger's sovereignty and prioritize the well-being of its people.