The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has announced the suspension of its operations in Niger after the government ordered the closure of its offices. The government has accused the organisation of colluding with armed groups, allegations the ICRC vehemently denies.
Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger's junta leader, stated in an interview that the ICRC had been expelled in February, accusing it of meeting and collaborating with Islamist insurgent leaders. The ICRC responded that its dialogue with all parties to a conflict is essential to fulfilling its humanitarian mandate, and it does not provide financial, logistical, or other support to these parties.
The ICRC has worked in Niger for 35 years. The organisation stated that it had already removed all foreign personnel from Niger earlier this year following a government order and had attempted to engage in dialogue to clarify the situation, but these attempts were unsuccessful.
The suspension of ICRC operations comes at a critical time, as approximately 4.5 million people in Niger, 17% of the population, require aid due to insecurity, epidemics, and natural disasters.
The junta staged a coup in 2023 that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Since then, Niger's authorities have expelled French and other Western forces and sought support from Russia.
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