Country report and updates: Niger

Niger achieved independence from France in 1960. In January 1996 the democratically elected government of president Ousmane was overthrown by a military coup led by colonel Mainassara. He was elected president in July 1997.

1 Conscription

conscription exists

Niger has conscription, although it is only imposed selectively. [1] [3] [4]

military service

It is not known who is liable for military service.

Military service lasts for 24 months. [3] [4]

postponement and exemption

No information available.

recruitment

It is not known how recruitment into the armed forces takes place.

2 Conscientious objection

There is no legal provision for conscientious objection. [1]

3 Draft evasion and desertion

Refusing to perform military service may be punished by imprisonment. [1]

About the actual treatment of draft evaders and deserters nothing is known.

4 Recruitment by armed groups

In the north of Niger Tuareg rebel groups are active. They are estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,000 strong and may consist of former soldiers of the Islamic Legion who were trained in Libya. In 1994 a cease-fire was reached and on 24 April 1995 a peace agreement was signed including an amnesty for members of the defence, security and rebel forces. [2]

6 Annual statistics

The armed forces comprise 5,300 troops - approximately 0.05 percent of the population. [4]

Every year about 87,000 men reach conscription age. [4]

Sources

[1] Eide, A., C. Mubanga-Chipoya 1985. Conscientious objection to military service, report prepared in pursuance of resolutions 14 (XXXIV) and 1982/30 of the Sub-Commission of Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities. United Nations, New York. [2] IRBDC 1996 IRBDC, 2 March 1993, 23 August 1994 & 25 January 1996. [3] UN Commission on Human Rights 1997. The question of conscientious objection to military service, report of the Secretary-General prepared pursuant to Commission resolution 1995/83. United Nations, Geneva. [4] Institute for Strategic Studies 1997. Military Balance 1997/98. ISS, London, UK.