Political shifts on the african continent: democracy under scrutiny Since 2020, Africa has witnessed a wave of political upheavals, with nine successful military coups displacing democratically elected leaders. These events have sparked intense debate about the state of governance across the continent. Meanwhile, African nations are increasingly aligning with theContinue Reading
Article Côte d’Ivoire’s agricultural sector and policy shaping food security The agricultural sector remains the backbone of Côte d’Ivoire’s economy, despite its declining share in GDP. At independence, agriculture contributed nearly 50% to the country’s GDP, but by 2024, this figure had dropped to 15.9%. However, the sector continues toContinue Reading
Why does corruption and financial crime remain unchecked in Niger? Every year, the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) serves as a stark reminder of the state of public governance worldwide. The latest report confirms a troubling trend: corruption is not receding, even in nations with strong democratic institutions. ThisContinue Reading
Human rights The UN’s top human rights official, Volker Türk, has urged the government of Burkina Faso to lift all restrictions on civic space and reconsider its plan to outlaw political parties entirely. « This is not a step in the right direction for the human rights of the peopleContinue Reading
Since the military coup in July 2023, Niger has experienced a sharp decline in human rights conditions. In 2025, the ruling junta intensified crackdowns on political opponents, dissidents, union members, and journalists. Among those held without legal justification are former President Mohamed Bazoum and his spouse, alongside ousted government officials,Continue Reading
In Mali, terms like “Bonya” (respect), “woro songo” (the price of cola), or “buru songo” (the price of bread) have become common euphemisms for illicit payments. These “small gifts” are the building blocks of a corruption crisis that has deeply permeated Malian society, creating a social tragedy that many nowContinue Reading
A group of independent United Nations specialists warned on Thursday that the Mali Council of Ministers’ move to repeal basic political participation protections, alongside a decree halting political party operations, constitutes a clear breach of fundamental human rights. “The decree freezing political activities needs to be canceled at once. Furthermore,Continue Reading
Renforcer la protection des défenseur·e·x·s au moyen de lignes directrices diplomatiques 14 mars 2026 ISHR lance deux nouveaux outils interactifs visant à renforcer les initiatives diplomatiques en faveur des défenseur·e·x·s des droits humains : l’un s’adresse aux diplomates, l’autre aux défenseur·e·x·s. By Aïssata Issa — AnalystContinue Reading
The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger — has become a focal point of debate as military juntas consolidate power in the region. Since 2020, these nations have experienced successive coups, each justified by the urgent need to combat terrorism and restore security. Yet,Continue Reading
Bénin Bénin: coup d’état foiled raises questions about post-Talon era The arrest this week in Benin of three prominent figures on suspicion of plotting a “coup d’état” has thrust into the spotlight the question of who will succeed President Patrice Talon, whose second term is set to end in 2026.Continue Reading
Military junta tightens grip on dissent as Niger marks coup anniversary Click to expand Image Nairobi – Since seizing power in Niger one year ago, the military junta has systematically suppressed opposition voices, independent media and peaceful dissent, according to joint findings by Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and theContinue Reading
Press Freedom in Niger: A Growing Crisis The freedom of the press in Niger is facing severe threats as transitional authorities intensify intimidation and arbitrary arrests of journalists covering the country’s ongoing conflict and security concerns. This alarming trend has led many reporters to self-censor out of fear of retaliation.Continue Reading