Niger suspends nine French media bodies: Watchdog slams ‘abusive’ decision
Summary
Niger’s military government has suspended nine French media organizations, accusing them of harming public order and national stability. The move is part of a broader crackdown on press freedom after the military took power in July 2023, and it has drawn criticism from media watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders.Key Facts
- Niger suspended nine French media outlets, including France 24, RFI, AFP, and Mediapart.
- The suspension covers TV, satellite, cable, digital platforms, websites, and mobile apps.
- The military government took control of Niger in July 2023 by ousting President Mohamed Bazoum.
- Niger’s government has also suspended the BBC and targeted local and foreign journalists.
- The government severed ties with France and asked French troops to leave in late 2023.
- Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, opposes French influence and seeks new defense partners like Russia.
- Local laws now criminalize sharing digital content that might disturb public order.
- Niger ranked 120th out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, falling 37 places.
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