Brussels, 24 October 2023 (TDI): The European Council has adopted a specific framework for targeted sanctions on individuals who engineered the overthrow of the democratic government in Niger and seized power in July 2023.
These targeted restriction measures included asset freezes and prohibitions on making funds available to those involved in the coup. Travel bans have also been imposed on these individuals.
The EU Council explained in a statement, that this framework will allow the EU to sanction individuals and entities that pose a threat to the peace, stability, and security of Niger, as well as those who violate human rights and international humanitarian law, and those who undermine the country’s constitutional order.
The EU has taken this initiative to support the efforts of the West African regional body the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in swiftly restoring constitutional order in Niger.
European Minister for Foreign Affairs, Joseph Borrell added that the EU strongly condemned the coup in Niger from the start. He emphasized that this decision supports ECOWAS’ efforts and sends a clear message to the military about the consequences of their actions.
This new framework includes a humanitarian exemption to ensure the timely delivery of essential humanitarian aid and activities for the basic needs of the people in Niger.
The European Union has been consistently supporting the people of Niger by providing special humanitarian assistance to address shortages of essential supplies. In October 2023, the EU delivered 58 tons of critical sanitary supplies including medicines and medical materials through a humanitarian air bridge.
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In July 2023 the military in Niger overthrew the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. After two days, General Tchiani in charge of the president’s security declared himself the president of the Conseil national pour la sauvegarde de la patrie (CNSP).
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