Covering Africa's political, economic and cultural landscape with depth, balance and editorial independence.
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 …
Why corruption and economic crime persist in Niger despite efforts Read More
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 …
Un calls on Burkina Faso to reverse restrictions on civil liberties Read More
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, …
Human rights crisis in Niger amid political unrest and insurgencies Read More
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 …
Deep-rooted corruption in Mali: the social cost of “small gifts” Read More
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, …
UN experts call for the restoration of political activities in Mali Read More
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 …
CADHP83 : mettre un terme à la répression des défenseur·e·x·s des droits humains au Sahel Read More
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 …
Future of democracy in the alliance of Sahel states Read More
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 …
Bénin: coup d’état foiled raises questions about post-Talon era Read More
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 …
Niger’s human rights crisis one year after military takeover Read More
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 …
Press freedom under threat in Niger amid arrests and intimidation Read More
The military takeover in Niger on July 26, 2023, swiftly prompted a wave of international responses. Major organizations such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and nations including the United States, …
Bénin’s opposition challenges government over potential Niger military intervention Read More
The recently enacted constitution, swiftly approved on November 1st through an urgent procedure, establishes a ‘presidential ticket’ system. This mandates the simultaneous election of the President of the Republic and …
Benin’s constitutional overhaul: reforms and political implications Read More