Niger junta revokes law curbing migrant smuggling

Nigers junta has revoked a 2015 law that was enacted to curb the smuggling of migrants travelling from African countries through a key migration route in Niger en route to Europe.

The military junta in Niger has repealed a 2015 law aimed at curbing the smuggling of migrants through the country, according to a government circular. The move comes amid growing political tensions between Niger and European Union countries that imposed sanctions on the West African nation following a July coup.

Revoking the Law

The decree, signed by junta leader General Abdourahmane Tchiani on November 25, nullifies the convictions and effects of the 2015 law. The Ministry of Justice will consider releasing all those convicted under the law, according to Ibrahim Jean Etienne, the ministry's secretary general.

Niger-EU Tensions

The revocation of the law adds to the escalating political tensions between Niger and EU countries. The sanctions imposed by Western and European countries in response to the coup have caused economic hardship for Nigeriens and emboldened the junta.

A Gateway for Migration

Niger's Agadez region serves as a key gateway for migrants from West Africa seeking to reach Libya and cross the Mediterranean to Europe. The region has also become a lucrative hub for people smugglers, prompting the government, in collaboration with the European Union, to enact the 2015 law.

Law's Impact

While the law transformed Niger into a migration hub housing thousands of migrants being returned to their countries, the UN human rights office noted that it led migrants to seek increasingly dangerous migratory routes, resulting in heightened risks of human rights violations.

Coup and Aftermath

Following the July 26 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, Western and European countries suspended aid for health, security, and infrastructure needs to Niger. The sanctions, intended to pressure the junta, have instead caused economic hardship for the population and strengthened the junta's resolve. The junta has established a transitional government that could remain in power for up to three years.

The revocation of the 2015 anti-migrant smuggling law in Niger adds a new dimension to the country's complex political landscape. As Niger grapples with the aftermath of the coup and the resulting sanctions, the fate of migration policies and the broader relationship with the international community remain uncertain.