European migration policy in Niger in the 21st century

Abstract

Introduction. The article is devoted to the study of the impact of changes in the migration policy of the European Union in the mid-2010s in Niger. Since the 1990s, the country has become an important transit area for migration from West and Central Africa to Libya and Europe. Migration is an important resource in Niger, but it has not been politically regulated by the Government of that country. Methods. The study analyses the transformation of Niger's migration policy, with a focus on the migration law adopted under the influence of the EU. Analysis. In 2015, Niger became a key partner state in the implementation of the European migration control policy, as it was considered an alternative country for migrants in Libya and North Africa. The European migration policy in Niger was primarily aimed at preventing migration. The article emphasizes that, in addition to its role in combating illegal migration to Europe, the European migration policy in Niger also considered migration as a security threat related to terrorism. Results. The government of Niger, seeking financial benefits from the EU, passed a migration law in the interests of its Western partner. This disrupted the region's economic landscape and led to growing discontent among the population regarding their country's domestic policies. The 2023 coup in Niger was a direct consequence of this situation.