The United Nations has raised the alarm about the escalating Niger crisis, expressing concerns over its potential impact on regional insecurity in West Africa. Léonardo Simão, the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for West Africa, addressed journalists at the UN headquarters in New York, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
During the briefing, Mr Simão reiterated the UN’s condemnation of the attempted overthrow of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26. He also lent his support to the efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore constitutional order and consolidate democratic gains in the country.
The UN envoy emphasized that if the unfolding crisis is not properly addressed, it could further worsen the already deteriorating security situation in the region. He also pointed out the negative impact it would have on the development and lives of the population, especially when over 4.3 million people in Niger require humanitarian assistance.
Speaking from Accra, Ghana, Mr Simão highlighted that Niger and the entire region need stability, peace, democratic governance, and prosperity, not coups d’état that destabilize the nation and the surrounding countries.
In response to the crisis, the 15-member bloc of West African States issued a communiqué during an extraordinary summit, demanding the reinstatement of Niger’s democratically elected president within a week. If this demand is not met, ECOWAS is ready to take all necessary measures, including the use of force, to restore constitutional order. The bloc also imposed financial sanctions on Niger and closed air and land borders with the country.
While some neighboring countries, such as Mali and Burkina Faso, expressed concerns about the potential use of force, Mr Simão explained that ECOWAS is currently focused on finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis. However, he expressed hope that military action would not be necessary and clarified that any decision to use force lies with ECOWAS, not the UN.
The UN envoy expressed his concern about the potential spread of terrorism in the region if the situation is not addressed promptly. He highlighted the importance of resolving the crisis peacefully to prevent any further escalation of violence.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also expressed deep concern about the reported arrests of several members of the ousted Niger government. The UN urges strict adherence to Niger’s international human rights obligations and the prompt restoration of constitutional order.
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Despite the crisis, the UN and its humanitarian partners remain committed to providing vital aid to the most vulnerable segments of the population. To ensure the continuation of this crucial assistance, all partieso arged to create a conducie operating environment.
