Niger: Nationwide demonstrations on September 23 /update 1

Event

Civil society groups and opposition parties have called for nationwide demonstrations to take place on Sunday, September 23, to protest the 2018 Finance Act and the government's current budget. Demonstrators are expected to rally in major cities, notably in the capital Niamey. In Niamey, protesters typically gather at Place Toumo and head towards Place de la Concertation, in front of the National Assembly building. Heightened security measures and associated traffic disruptions are expected near all protest sites. Further associated protests are possible in the coming weeks.

Context

The 2018 Finance Act stipulates the implementation of inheritance and land taxes and raises taxes on goods and services.

Several related demonstrations have been held, notably in Niamey, throughout 2018. Generally speaking, Niger frequently experiences violent demonstrations. Both large and small protests occur regularly, often near government buildings, university campuses, or public parks. Many demonstrations have involved rock throwing and tire burning, especially at key intersections. 

Advice

Individuals in Niger are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.

In general, individuals throughout Niger should exercise vigilance when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted by an attack (i.e. government buildings, prominent hotels, etc.) and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. Many Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to areas located in the north and west of the country, as well as areas along the Nigerian border to the south, due to the high risk of terrorist activity.