Strengthening human rights mechanisms in the tri-border region

In Niamey, the President of the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), Maty El Hadj Moussa, inaugurated a regional conference dedicated to human rights protection mechanisms within the Sahel. This gathering focused specifically on the security crisis impacting the three-border zone involving Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. High-level officials attended the event, including the Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice, the Africa Director of DCAF, and the German Ambassador to Niger.

The two-day summit is designed to educate stakeholders on best practices for safeguarding fundamental freedoms. Its primary goals include enhancing the capacity of participants to use tools for preventing rights violations and improving governance. By strengthening internal and external oversight bodies, the conference aims to ensure these institutions can effectively uphold the rule of law.

Addressing the impact of asymmetric warfare

During his opening remarks, Maty El Hadj Moussa emphasized that the persistent instability in the border regions of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has resulted in extensive human rights abuses. These violations are committed by unidentified armed groups spreading terror, as well as occasionally by security forces engaged in counter-insurgency efforts. He noted that local populations are caught in an asymmetric conflict where the threat of violence is constant, and even the suspicion of cooperation with authorities can lead to execution.

The CNDH President asserted that this ongoing crisis demands urgent reflection from all human rights advocates. He called for collective strategies that align with the public’s desire for peace, security, and long-term regional stability.

Collaborative efforts for regional stability

Moussa Sahirou Tchida, representing the Ministry of Justice, highlighted that stabilizing the Sahel requires a unified approach from all regional actors. He expressed gratitude for the support of international partners, particularly the European Union, whose assistance was vital in organizing the conference. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing initiatives that bring security to the tri-border area.

Anne Benette, Africa Director at DCAF, observed that the Sahel is currently facing a convergence of political, social, and environmental crises that complicate governance. She stated that rising insecurity and community tensions are eroding the social fabric. According to Benette, this conference serves as a critical platform for exchanging strategies to protect the rule of law against the various threats facing the region.

Adding to this perspective, Herman Nicolai, the German Ambassador to Niger, pointed out that the Sahel is witnessing a more rapid increase in violence than any other part of the continent. He noted that for over a decade, the activities of extremist groups and transnational criminal networks have led to thousands of casualties among both civilians and military personnel, while also causing massive internal displacement.