Title: Deployment of a standby force in Niger: the African Union takes a stand
Introduction :
In an official statement published on August 22, 2023, the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) announces that it “takes note” of the decision of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS ) to deploy a standby force in Niger, following the coup that overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum. The PSC also calls for an assessment of the economic, social and security implications of this decision, while affirming the suspension of this country from all AU activities until the effective restoration of constitutional order.
A compromise text:
According to diplomatic sources, this statement from the AU PSC is considered a “compromise text”. After eight days of heated debates, the Peace and Security Council finally found common ground. The text is intended to be cautious about a possible military option, favoring the diplomatic option instead. It stresses the need for a thorough assessment of the economic, social and security consequences of the deployment of the standby force in Niger.
A fracture between the AU and ECOWAS:
This statement also reveals a “fault line” between the AU PSC and ECOWAS. Indeed, while the AU has decided to suspend Niger and considers the coup as a fait accompli, ECOWAS refuses to recognize the regime resulting from this coup. This divergence of positions highlights the tensions and dissensions within African regional organizations.
Economic sanctions and individual punitive measures:
The AU PSC also approves of the economic sanctions imposed by ECOWAS following the coup in Niger. However, he insists on the need to ensure their progressive application and to minimize their disproportionate impact on the population of Niger. The CPS also calls for the urgent submission of a list of junta members and their supporters, with a view to targeted sanctions and individual punitive measures.
Conclusion :
The position of the African Union on the deployment of a standby force in Niger following the coup has sparked debate and tension within African regional organizations. The AU PSC adopted a compromise text, favoring the diplomatic option while approving the economic sanctions of ECOWAS. The divide between the AU and ECOWAS highlights the challenges facing crisis management in Africa. The situation in Niger remains worrying, and it is up to regional actors to work together to find a peaceful solution and the restoration of constitutional order