In Niger, a military coup threatens the country's democratic path and partnership with the US. Declan Walsh discusses the concerns of powerful countries and the rise of extremism in the Sahel region. The coup leads to escalating tensions and a global standoff, endangering counterterrorism efforts and international influence in Africa.
The military coup in Niger threatens the country's democratic progress and partnerships, raising concerns about the fight against violent extremism and the stability of the Sahel region.
The coup in Niger could lead to the withdrawal of Western military assistance, allowing Islamic militants to gain an upper hand and create further instability, while also potentially benefiting rivals like China and Russia.
Deep dives
The Unique Importance of the Coup in Niger
The recent military coup in Niger has garnered global attention due to its significance. This coup is seen as a 'red line coup' by the US, European allies, and major regional African countries, which means it is deemed unacceptable and must be reversed. The coup is especially concerning because it threatens the democratic progress and partnerships that Niger has established, particularly with the US. President Mohamed Bazoum, who came to power through a peaceful democratic transition, has been a pivotal figure in the fight against violent extremism in the region. Moreover, Niger is a key player in the battle against Islamic militancy, which is a growing threat in the Sahel region.
The Dangers of the Coup and Extremism in the Sahel
The coup in Niger poses significant risks and challenges, particularly in addressing the escalating problem of Islamic militancy in the Sahel region. This area has witnessed a sharp rise in extremist violence, with 43% of global deaths from such violence occurring there. The presence of major terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Boko Haram further complicates the situation. Niger, being one of the poorest countries in the world, is particularly susceptible to the spread of militancy. The efforts of President Bazoum, along with international military support and military bases in Niger, have shown some success in reducing violence in the region. However, if the coup is not reversed, the progress made in countering extremism could be reversed, leading to dire consequences.
The Implications and Global Stakes of the Coup
The international community, including the US and its allies, is deeply invested in reversing the coup in Niger due to the potential ramifications and ripple effects it could have. If the coup remains in place, it could lead to the withdrawal of Western military assistance, including troops and drone surveillance, which play a crucial role in combating terrorism. This vacuum of support may allow Islamic militants to gain an upper hand and create further instability in Niger and the surrounding countries. Additionally, rivals like China and Russia could take advantage of the situation, seeking to expand their influence in the region at the expense of US interests. Ultimately, the coup in Niger represents a critical juncture in the fight against extremist violence and the stability of the Sahel, warranting urgent attention and diplomatic efforts to reverse the coup.
In a region of Africa where authoritarianism has been rising, Niger seemed to be on a different path of democracy and partnership with the United States.
Declan Walsh, chief Africa correspondent for The Times, explains how a military coup has now put all of that in jeopardy and why Niger’s allies still think it’s possible to reverse that coup.
Guest: Declan Walsh, the chief Africa correspondent for The New York Times.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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