Niger’s military authorities have adopted a wide-ranging “general mobilisation” decree granting the State extensive powers to address perceived security threats. The decree, adopted on 26 December, allows the authorities to summon citizens, requisition goods, compel the reporting of alleged “hostile activities” and restrict communications considered harmful to national mobilisation efforts.
The authorities state that the measure is intended to preserve territorial integrity and State sovereignty and to protect the population and public institutions from internal and external threats. However, the breadth and vagueness of the provisions raise significant concerns about their compatibility with fundamental rights.
In a context where civic space has steadily narrowed since the July 2023 military coup, the decree risks being used to suppress peaceful dissent and to further restrict freedoms of movement and expression. Certain provisions are particularly expansive, including obligations on citizens to report the presence of any “foreign national from a hostile country”, terminology that lacks definition and could facilitate arbitrary or discriminatory enforcement.
The decree is adopted against the backdrop of an ongoing crackdown on political opposition figures, independent media, civil society organisations and trade unions. Former President Mohamed Bazoum and his wife remain arbitrarily detained since the coup, alongside a number of other detainees, including prominent human rights defender Moussa Tiangari.
While Niger faces serious security challenges, particularly in the Tillabéry region where armed groups affiliated with the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda continue to carry out attacks on civilians and security forces, international human rights law sets clear limits on emergency measures. Under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, any restrictions during a state of emergency must be strictly required by the exigencies of the situation. The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights does not permit derogations from its protections, even in times of emergency.
The adoption of the general mobilisation decree underscores the need for robust legal safeguards and independent oversight to prevent abuse. Respect for fundamental rights remains a central component of restoring security and the rule of law in Niger.