The ongoing problem that brought down Niger’s pro-Western President Mohamed Bazoum, tensions between Niger and its previous colonial power, France, have reached new heights. The coup, carried out by members of the presidential guard on July 26, has led to a political crisis in the West African nation, sparking protests and drawing regional reactions.
Because of the heightening circumstance, France has chosen to evacuate its residents and other European nationals from Niger, a move that goes beyond its reactions to previous coups in the neighboring former French colonies of Mali and Burkina Faso.
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Sources Related to Coups and Coup attempts (For R&D)
- List of coups and coup attempts
- 5 Famous Coups
- Timeline: A history of coups in Niger
- Sudan military coup: History of successful and failed coup attempts since independence
- Napoleon’s Bloodless Coup
- Frequency of Coup Events from 1945 to 2022, by Country
- A Brief History of the Coup d’État in the Asia-Pacific
Niger, a nation facing the difficulties of jihadist insurgencies in the Sahel region, saw its seventh military takeover in under three years. The coup has raised worries among neighboring nations, especially those that have experienced similar political upheavals.
The military governments of Burkina Faso and Mali have cautioned against any military intervention in Niger to reestablish President Bazoum, stating that such an action would be considered a “declaration of war” against their nations.
France, which had been a critical Western ally in Niger’s endeavors to battle jihadist extremism, quickly chose to clear its citizens and other Europeans from the country.
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The French foreign office cited the deteriorating security situation in Niamey, Niger’s capital, where the French embassy was attacked by supporters of the junta on Sunday. The conclusion of airspace and the brutal incidents left French citizens abandoned, prompting the need for immediate evacuation.
In solidarity with France, the Italian government likewise reported its plan to arrange a special flight to repatriate its nationals from Niger. Spain, too, confirmed its intention to evacuate more than 70 Spanish citizens from the country. As the circumstance unfurls, other European nations are intently checking improvements and planning with France to guarantee the safety of their nationals.
The coup in Niger has drawn strong reactions from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). At an emergency summit, ECOWAS demanded President Bazoum’s reinstatement within a week, threatening to take “all measures,” including potential military intervention, if their demands are not met.
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However, Burkina Faso and Mali, having encountered their own military takeovers, communicated their solidarity with Niger and cautioned against any external military aggression in the country. The coup in Niger has been a chance for Russia’s Wagner mercenary group to capitalize on anti-colonial sentiments and stretch its influence across the African continent.
Demonstrators in Niger protested against France’s alleged imperialistic activities and effect on the nation’s resources and economy. Moscow has fostered pro-Russia support in Niger amid the anti-colonial movement.
As the emergency develops in Niger, questions emerge about the fate of the nation and the presence of Western forces. France, which had been helping Niger in its battle against armed groups, may withdraw its troops, while the US, which also has a military presence in the country, emphasizes the need to restore democratic rule. The coup has caused instability in the region, posing challenges for Niger’s efforts to combat terrorism and address its economic hardships.
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