We strongly condemn these unacceptable acts, which constitute a blatant attack on freedom of association, the right to collective bargaining, and freedom of expression — rights guaranteed by notable continental instruments such as the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) fundamental conventions, particularly Conventions 87 and 98 to which Niger is a signatory.

ITUC-Africa expresses its full and unwavering solidarity with our members of the Intersyndicale des Travailleurs du Niger (ITN), and with all workers across Niger who are facing intimidation and repression for exercising their legitimate rights. We reaffirm that any attempt to intimidate, repress, or undermine trade union rights is a direct threat to civil liberty, rule of law and social justice.

ITUC-Africa urgently calls upon the authorities of Niger to take immediate action to:
 Cease all harassment and repression against trade unions, their leaders, and members without delay
 Guarantee the safety and security of all trade union activists and leaders
 Respect and fully protect trade union rights and freedoms in strict accordance with Niger’s international legal obligations and commitments
 Restore and maintain an environment conducive to free and independent trade union activities
 Engage constructively in genuine, inclusive, and meaningful social dialogue with all representative trade union organisations
 Ensure accountability for any violations that have occurred and prevent their recurrence
 To reverse the dissolution of sectoral trade unions, especially those in the judiciary sector and to desist from any attempt to expand the dissolution of other trade union organisations.

ITUC-Africa will closely monitor the situation and will take all necessary and legitimate measures, including recourse to the appropriate international mechanisms, to support the Nigerien trade unions and workers in defending their rights and privileges.

In Solidarity

Akhator Joel Odigie
General Secretary
Issued in Lome on 12th August 2025