Escalating repression since the coup

In a strongly worded statement released on July 23, Human Rights Watch highlighted a dramatic deterioration in Niger’s human rights climate since the junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, assumed power. The organization condemned what it describes as the deliberate erosion of democratic institutions, pointing to the systematic dismantling of checks and balances. HRW specifically documented the forced dissolution of opposition parties and independent unions, the suspension of numerous civil society organizations, arbitrary detentions of journalists, and the criminalization of same-sex relationships.

A prolonged transition and persistent insecurity

Human Rights Watch also raised serious concerns about the indefinite extension of the political transition period. Authorities have indicated they may remain in power for at least five additional years without a clear electoral roadmap. The rights group further criticized the deteriorating security situation in a country plagued for over a decade by jihadist insurgencies. It highlighted allegations of civilian casualties resulting from counter-insurgency operations, notably citing a January drone strike that reportedly killed at least 17 civilians at a market. The organization also condemned Niger’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), warning that this move severely undermines accountability mechanisms for potential human rights abuses.