The African Union’s position not only reveals a preference for dialogue, but also highlights the importance of favouring political solutions to conflicts. For the AU, peaceful resolution takes precedence over military action.
The UA’s option
At a major meeting of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU), a resounding decision was taken: to firmly oppose any military intervention in Niger. This decision marks an unprecedented break with the position of ECOWAS, which had already activated its standby forces with a view to armed intervention. The widening gap between these two major African institutions bears witness to the complexity and gravity of the situation in Niger.
As a reminder, France had openly stated that it would support all ECOWAS initiatives, and now finds itself disowned by this decision. According to Le Monde, the meeting was held on Monday 14 August, and the African institution’s official position should be made public in the next few hours.
The African Union’s position not only reveals a preference for dialogue, but also highlights the importance of favouring political solutions to conflicts. For the AU, peaceful resolution takes precedence over military action. While ECOWAS, despite its willingness to engage in dialogue, persists in its decision to intervene militarily, Niger remains prey to growing tensions and major security challenges. This lack of consensus at regional level risks complicating the current situation.
ECOWAS ruled out no option
The choices made by ECOWAS, in particular the activation of its military force to restore constitutional order, underline the urgency felt by some member states, notably Nigeria, Benin and Senegal. It should be noted that ECOWAS’s potential intervention is not just an isolated act: it openly condemns the coup attempt and the detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and those close to him, as does the international community.
However, although the will to intervene is palpable, it does not mean an immediate offensive. ECOWAS officials assure us that a margin is always left for mediation during the deployment of forces. The situation is delicate and tense, and requires concerted action. More than ever, it is vital that all the parties involved step up their efforts to find a peaceful and lasting solution. International mediation must be at the heart of strategies to guarantee stability in Niger.
