The July 2023 military coup in Niger reversed a decade of democratic and socio-economic progress. Under democratically elected presidents Issoufou and Bazoum, Niger had made significant advances in security, economic growth, governance, and press freedom. Since the junta took power, these achievements have deteriorated: a 67% increase in terrorism-related deaths, economic decline, media repression, loss of civil liberties, and decreased transparency. The junta has also strengthened ties with Russia, enabling disinformation and controversial mining concessions. The dissolution of elected institutions and militarization of governance reflect a major crisis in national sovereignty and democratic order. This regression not only destabilizes Niger but has broader implications for West African regional stability.

State, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Peace, Justice, Education, Democracy, Gold, Human security, Medias, Infowar, Information

In this interview, Dr. Yacine Diagne, a political scientist and head of the radio department at CESTI, Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, advocates for the democratization of Senegal's media landscape. She emphasizes the importance of strengthening journalist training and promoting ethical and responsible information dissemination. Dr. Diagne highlights the need to combat misinformation, especially during electoral periods, by involving media outlets, institutions, and civil society. She underscores the crucial role of media in consolidating democracy and calls for balanced regulation that respects press freedom while ensuring the quality of disseminated information.

Governance, Democracy, Medias, Disinformation

The study “Civil Societies in the Sahel: A Reasoned Mapping” analyzes collective organizational forms across Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Senegal. It highlights the diversity of civil society ecosystems rooted in postcolonial histories. These actors go beyond their technical role to challenge state governance and advocate for human rights and social services. The study calls on AFD to revise its support strategy for civil society organizations (CSOs) by emphasizing deeper contextual knowledge, social proximity, funding sustainability, and balanced accountability. It recommends more flexible and long-term funding, grounded in economic and social rights, to strengthen locally rooted capacities in a region facing multiple overlapping crises.

Politics, Social, Medias, Civil Society