On July 30, 2023, West African nations acted against Niger’s coup leaders, demanding President Mohammed Bazoum’s reinstatement within a week.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a 15-nation bloc, threatened force and sanctions.
ECOWAS also called for the immediate release of political prisoners.
Supporters of the junta attacked the French embassy in Niamey, Niger’s capital, resulting in tear gas from police.
The coup in Niger is the latest of several military takeovers in the region. Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Chad have experienced coups in recent years.
ECOWAS has been critical of such actions and has imposed sanctions on some countries. The bloc is willing to use force to restore constitutional order.
Will the threat of force persuade the Nigerien coup leaders to step down? ECOWAS’s sanctions are likely to have a significant impact on Niger’s economy. The coup’s occurrence is concerning, highlighting the fragility of democracy in West Africa. Strong regional institutions are essential to prevent further instability.
