Niger Junta Reverses Anti-Migration Law, Undermining EU Strategy

Niger's junta has revoked a 2015 law aimed at curbing the smuggling of migrants through the country, a key migration route to Europe. The law's revocation adds to tensions between Niger and EU countries, which had previously sanctioned the West African nation following the coup that brought the junta to power. The law had empowered security forces and courts to prosecute smugglers, but it also led to migrants seeking more dangerous routes. The sanctions imposed by Western and European countries have resulted in economic hardship for Nigeriens and emboldened the junta, which has established a transitional government that could remain in power for up to three years.