EU Recalls Ambassador from Niger Amid Worsening Relations

The European Union recalls its ambassador from Niger, signaling a deepening diplomatic rift following recent tensions. 

The European Union (EU) has withdrawn its ambassador from Niamey, the capital of Niger, for consultations in Brussels due to rising tensions with the country’s transitional authorities over EU humanitarian aid intended for flood victims in this West African nation.

“The European Union has acknowledged the statement from Niger’s transitional authorities, which questions the methods and administration of humanitarian aid delivered by the EU Delegation to those affected by severe flooding in Niger,” according to their report.

This disagreement signifies a continued worsening of relations between Europe and the military juntas in the Sahel region.

On Friday, Niger’s transitional government criticized the European Union for providing €1.3 million in humanitarian aid without prior consultation. In a statement, the government accused the EU ambassador of independently allocating these funds to NGOs, allegedly neglecting transparency principles and circumventing collaboration with Nigerien authorities. An audit of how these funds were managed was requested.

In response, a spokesperson for the EU stated their “profound disagreement” with Niger’s allegations, considering them a direct challenge to the EU’s handling of its humanitarian aid. As a result, the EU made the decision to recall its ambassador.

In response to the crisis in Niger, the EU has repeatedly affirmed its dedication to aiding the population. Humanitarian assistance is crucial and must be delivered neutrally, impartially, and independently through UN agencies, international organizations, and NGOs. The statement highlighted that there should be no justification for using humanitarian aid as a political tool.