EU Imposes Sanctions in Wake of Coup d’État in Niger

The European Union has taken decisive action to address the situation in Niger following a military coup on July 26, 2023. In an effort to promote stability and democracy in the West African country, the EU has imposed restrictive measures on individuals and entities responsible for undermining the constitutional order, threatening peace and security, and committing human rights violations.

Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2287 and Regulation (EU) 2023/2406

These sanctions aim to support efforts by the Economic Community of West African States to restore constitutional order. The measures are effective as of October 25 and target individuals and entities involved in actions or policies that threaten the stability of Niger.

Key Points of the Decision and Regulation

• Freezing of Funds and Economic Resources: A ban on providing funds to targeted individuals and entities, including freezing their financial assets.
• Refusal of Entry into EU Territory: Those subject to sanctions are prohibited from entering the territory of any member state.
• Exemptions: Humanitarian assistance, basic human needs, and other legitimate purposes are exempt from the sanctions. Additionally, certain activities such as paying for food, rent, medicines, taxes, and public utilities are allowed.

List of Sanctioned Individuals and Entities

The list of individuals and entities subject to the sanctions is published in the annexes to the regulation and decision. The Council of the European Union decides on changes to this list.

Transparency and Further Information

To ensure transparency, the EU has made available main documents related to the sanctions, including the council decisions and regulations. For further information, readers are referred to the European External Action Service’s website for more details on the EU’s relations with Niger.