Niger Suspends French Media Outlets; Watchdog Slams 'Abusive' Decision

Niger's ruling military junta has escalated its crackdown on press freedom by suspending nine prominent French media outlets, a move widely condemned by international watchdogs. Organizations including France 24, RFI (Radio France Internationale), AFP (Agence France-Presse), and Mediapart have been banned from broadcasting and publishing within Niger, accused by the National Communication Observatory (ONC) of disseminating content 'likely to seriously jeopardise public order, national unity, social cohesion, and the stability of the institutions of the Republic.'

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has vehemently denounced the decision, labeling it 'abusive' and part of a 'coordinated strategy to repress press freedom within the AES [Alliance of Sahel States],' which includes Niger and its allies Mali and Burkina Faso. These military-led governments have increasingly distanced themselves from former colonial power France, seeking new alliances, notably with Russia, and asserting their 'sovereignty.' This has led to a systematic targeting of French and other foreign media outlets, mirroring actions taken by the governments in Bamako and Ouagadougou.

“

RSF condemns a coordinated strategy to repress press freedom within the AES [Alliance of Sahel States] and calls for the immediate reversal of this abusive decision.

The suspensions are the latest in a series of measures taken by Niger's military government since it seized power in July 2023. Local and foreign reporters have faced bans and detentions, with RFI and France 24 previously suspended shortly after the coup. The BBC was also banned in December 2024. This campaign against independent media aims to control the narrative and suppress dissent, particularly concerning critical reporting on the government's policies and its shifting geopolitical allegiances.

Beyond foreign media, Nigerien journalists are also feeling the pressure. Two local journalists were recently released after months of detention, and authorities have strengthened laws criminalizing the digital dissemination of 'data likely to disturb public order.' This restrictive environment highlights the challenges faced by journalists seeking to report freely in Niger and the broader Sahel region, as governments prioritize state control over press freedom.

“

repeated dissemination of content likely to seriously jeopardise public order, national unity, social cohesion, and the stability of the institutions of the Republic