ECOWAS threatens military intervention in Niger coup, but support is waning. The crisis in Niger poses risks for potential military interventions. The coup's outcome may set a precedent in Africa. Tribute to Richard Simpson, an American consumer-product safety pioneer.
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Quick takeaways
Despite calls for military intervention, opposition to forceful action against Niger's military junta is increasing within West Africa and the wider African Union.
The severe decline in the value of the Russian ruble poses challenges for the country, as it raises the cost of imports and impacts the civilian economy.
Deep dives
Political Stalemate in Niger after Coup
Following a military coup in Niger, President Mohammed Bazoum remains essentially a hostage. The military junta has ignored calls from regional and international bodies to reinstate the democratically elected president. While ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) threatened military intervention, opposition to such action is rising, both within West Africa and the wider African Union. The junta, entrenched in power for three weeks, has shown little interest in diplomatic efforts or negotiations. The situation remains tense, with concerns about the potential for further coups in the region.
The Economic Toll on Russia
The Russian ruble has experienced a severe decline in value, reaching its lowest point since the invasion of Ukraine. The currency's poor performance is attributed to a combination of sanctions and reduced oil earnings. While a weaker ruble benefits government revenues from oil exports, it raises the cost of imports, which is problematic given Russia's ongoing military commitments. The Russian government faces limited options to stabilize the currency, as it cannot significantly influence oil prices or increase exports. Instead, the civilian economy is expected to bear the brunt of the impact through rising inflation and reduced purchasing power.
Richard Simpson's Impact on Consumer Product Safety
Richard Simpson, the first chairman of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, played a pivotal role in safeguarding consumers in the 1970s. He enforced regulations that protected Americans from dangerous products, ranging from flammable mattresses to unsafe children's sleepwear. While he achieved significant progress, such as introducing child-resistant caps on pill bottles, he faced challenges, particularly in regards to banning cigarettes. Simpson recognized the need for a balance between consumer safety and manufacturer interests, acknowledging that not all risks can be eliminated. His tenure had a wide-ranging impact on product safety regulations.
For weeks, the regional bloc ECOWAS has threatened to undo the putsch by force. But appetite for a military response—the ultimate deterrent in a coup-prone region—seems small and waning. Russia’s rouble has become one of the world’s worst-performing currencies, and there are not many good options to rescue it (09:40). And a tribute to an American pioneer of consumer-product safety (16:22).
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