The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has officially closed its offices in Niger and withdrawn its foreign staff, following an order issued by the country’s ruling junta four months ago.
In a statement on Thursday, the humanitarian organization confirmed its departure, expressing a continued desire for dialogue with Niger’s authorities. “We reiterate our willingness to maintain constructive dialogue… to resume our strictly humanitarian protection and assistance activities,” said Patrick Youssef, the ICRC’s regional director for Africa.
Niger’s Foreign Affairs Ministry had initially ordered the ICRC to shut down operations in February, without providing a clear reason. Since then, the organization attempted to engage in discussions with the government to understand the decision and offer clarifications, but these efforts did not succeed.
On May 31, Niger’s junta leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, spoke on state television,justifying the expulsion. He alleged that the ICRC had engaged with “terrorist leaders” and financially supported armed groups.
The closure marks a significant shift in humanitarian operations in Niger, as the ICRC had been providing vital aid and protection to vulnerable communities.
