Since the 2023 military coup in Niger, Amnesty International released a report illustrating a chilling landscape of human rights abuses perpetrated by the military regime. The documentation reveals rampant arbitrary detentions, press censorship, and the suppression of civil society, particularly infringing upon freedoms that are vital to a democratic society such as expression.
Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s Interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa, emphasised that the new authorities, which came to power under the pretext of improving security and governance, have drastically failed. Instead of upholding the rule of law and human rights, the regime has intensified its violations since the coup.
The report outlines significant deterioration in civic space and civil rights following the coup carried out by the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), which ousted elected President Mahmoud Bazoum. Authorities have suspended political activities and arrested numerous political figures, including the former president and his family, creating a climate of fear and repression against activists who now practice self-censorship to avoid severe repercussions.
Amnesty International is urging for the immediate release of those arbitrarily detained and the cessation of crackdowns on journalists and human rights advocates. Sivieude reiterated that the Nigerien authorities must adhere to international treaties safeguarding rights such as freedom of expression and the right to a fair trial, while prohibiting torture and other ill-treatment.
Reports in 2024 concluded that human rights violations have continued unabated, particularly the erosion of freedom of expression. The regime has furthered media repression by suspending major international outlets and institutionally stifling critiques through stringent online monitoring and legal revisions, resulting in harsh penalties for dissenters, including severe fines and imprisonment.
Amnesty International has condemned the ongoing human rights violations in Niger since the 2023 military coup. The report details arbitrary detentions, press censorship, and civil rights abuses. The new authorities, despite initial commitments to uphold human rights, have failed significantly. Amnesty urges for the release of arbitrarily detained individuals and respect for international human rights treaties.
In summary, the ongoing human rights abuses in Niger since the military coup reflect a critical breach of the commitments made by the current regime. With arbitrary detentions, media censorship, and suppression of dissenting voices rampant, there is an urgent need for international accountability and adherence to human rights standards. The situation necessitates immediate action from both local and international bodies to restore the rights of individuals and enhance civic freedoms.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
