The European Union (EU) has withdrawn its ambassador from Niamey, Niger’s capital, for consultations in Brussels, following a dispute with the country’s transitional authorities over EU humanitarian aid for flood victims.
In a statement, the EU highlighted concerns raised by Niger’s transitional government regarding the “modalities and management” of €1.3 million in aid allocated by the EU Delegation. The Nigerien authorities criticized the EU for distributing the funds to NGOs without prior consultation, alleging a lack of transparency and collaboration. They have requested an audit of the fund’s usage.
The EU strongly refuted these accusations, with a spokesperson expressing “profound disagreement” over the claims and viewing them as a direct challenge to the EU’s aid operations. The decision to recall the ambassador was made in response to these tensions.
The EU emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting Niger’s population during the crisis, reiterating that its humanitarian aid is delivered neutrally, impartially, and independently through established channels, including UN agencies and NGOs. The bloc also condemned what it called the politicization of humanitarian aid for political purposes, warning it could undermine efforts to assist those in need.
This dispute adds to the growing strain in relations between European nations and Sahelian military-led governments.