Niger’s Government Cancels Law Against Migrant Smuggling, Raising EU Concerns
In late November, Niger’s military government overturned a law from 2015 aimed at reducing migration through a key route.
While the European Union fears an increase in illegal migration to Europe, the move is seen as beneficial for Niger’s local economy.
The EU has expressed regret, citing potential risks, but Nigeriens welcome the decision, as the repealed law was seen as a threat to their economy.
The law, established in response to the 2015 migration crisis, led to the imprisonment of smugglers and fines. Despite EU-funded vocational programs in Niger, the policy did not yield the desired results. Now, with the law repealed, the business of migration in Niger’s Agadez is expected to revive, potentially leading to an influx of migrants to Europe.
This development adds to the EU’s challenges in outsourcing border controls to African countries, following Tunisia’s rejection of funding in October. Source: France 24.