In a climate marked by a potential military intervention in Niger, the safety of diplomatic personnel is becoming a major concern. The embassies of several countries, such as the United States, Germany and France, have decided to reduce their staff, sometimes drastically. Some employees who were on vacation did not return to Niger and others, whose contracts are coming to an end, will not be replaced.
Diplomatic teams are now very small, with some embassies having no more than a dozen agents. The attacks on the French representation at the end of July and the junta’s rhetoric have created some concern. The ambassadors are looking to avoid any problems for their staff and have therefore asked non-essential employees to leave and work remotely.
In addition to security fears, ambassadors also fear being expelled from the country. Diplomatic activities are greatly reduced following the suspension of cooperation programs. Moreover, more and more foreign nationals are also leaving Niger, taking into account the growing risks. It is therefore vital for them to register with the diplomatic authorities to facilitate their departure should the need arise.
In the case of the United States, the State Department confirmed the departure of around 100 nationals, specifying that the suspension of development aid and security cooperation could be quickly lifted if constitutional order was restored. by the junta. Despite the current difficulties, diplomatic negotiations are continuing to try to find a solution to the political and security crisis that Niger is going through.
It is essential to closely monitor the evolution of the situation in Niger and to take into account the necessary adjustments to guarantee the safety of diplomatic personnel and the continuation of diplomatic activities in this delicate context