Alejandro Woodhouse
Tue, Aug 29, 2023 2:05 PMNGO Calls for Humanitarian Exemptions to Sanctions in Niger
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![NGO Calls for Humanitarian Exemptions to Sanctions in Niger](https://ooo.ng/storage/news/news_image_ap_20230829-7699801046-0.jpg)
More than forty NGOs operating in Niger have called on the international community to introduce "humanitarian exemptions" to the sanctions imposed on the country following the coup on July 26. These measures have disrupted the essential assistance needed by 4.3 million Nigeriens. The NGOs emphasize the catastrophic impact of delays in delivering vital supplies such as nutrition aids and medical resources in a country where high rates of malnutrition persist. The coup in Niger was led by the self-proclaimed National Council for the Salvation of the People (CNSP), resulting in trade and financial sanctions from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). In response to the junta's disregard for threats, the ECOWAS has rejected the three-year political transition proposed by the coup leaders.
More than forty NGOs operating in Niger have called on the international community to introduce "humanitarian exemptions" to the sanctions imposed on the country following the coup on July 26. These measures have disrupted the essential assistance needed by 4.3 million Nigeriens.
Paolo Cernuschi, Niger Country Director of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), one of the signatory organizations, highlighted the dire situation stating, "Currently, vital supplies such as nutrition aids and medical resources are being held at the borders due to the sanctions. In a country where rates of malnutrition are alarmingly high, these delays can be catastrophic."
He further emphasized that 13% of Niger's population is experiencing severe food insecurity, a problem compounded by attacks from jihadist groups, lack of rainfall, and the inflation caused by the sanctions imposed on the country.
"We have a moral duty to act swiftly and decisively. Lives are at stake. We cannot allow bureaucratic barriers to stand in the way of saving them," Cernuschi concluded in the statement signed in neighboring Nigeria.
The coup in Niger was led by the self-proclaimed National Council for the Salvation of the People (CNSP) on July 26, which announced the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum and the suspension of the constitution.
In response, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposed trade and financial sanctions on Niger and raised the possibility of regional military intervention to remove the Nigerien military junta from power.
However, the coup leaders have ignored the threats and announced a political transition of up to three years on August 19, which ECOWAS has rejected.
Niger thus became the fourth West African country to be led by a military junta, following Mali, Guinea-Conakry, and Burkina Faso, all of which experienced coups between 2020 and 2022.
The international community faces a critical decision on whether to exempt humanitarian aid from the sanctions, considering the urgent need for assistance in Niger. The lives of millions of Nigeriens depend on swift action to ensure the delivery of vital supplies and resources.
The resilient people of Niger continue to face the consequences of political instability, external threats, and severe humanitarian challenges. It is essential for the international community to come together and explore solutions that prioritize humanitarian needs and alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable in Niger.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-29 News
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