In recent years, Niger’s media landscape has become increasingly fraught. Since the military coup in July 2023, press freedom has faced a serious crackdown. Journalists face intimidation, arrests, and legal uncertainty. In this article, we examine how the current regime has tightened its grip on the press, what that means for democratic discourse, and why media freedom matters deeply in Niger today.

1. The Post-Coup Media Crackdown

The July 2023 coup marks a clear turning point for press freedom in Niger. According to Amnesty International, the transitional authorities have used intimidation and arbitrary detention to silence journalists, especially those covering sensitive security issues. Amnesty International+1

Human Rights Watch reports that several journalists have been arrested under broadly defined cybercrime laws, signaling a coordinated effort to suppress dissent. Human Rights Watch+1

2. Repressive Legislation: Cybercrime Law & Its Consequences

One of the most troubling tools in the junta’s arsenal is an amended cybercrime law. The law allows for prison sentences of two to five years for “disseminating data likely to disturb public order” or “insult via electronic communication.” IFEX+2Human Rights Watch+2

These vague provisions give the authorities sweeping power to criminalize reporting—especially critical or investigative journalism. Amnesty International+1

3. Targeted Arrests and Intimidation

Journalists in Niger are not immune to arrest. For instance:

• Soumana Maiga, editor of L’Enquêteur, was arrested in April 2024 after reporting on alleged listening devices installed in government buildings. Amnesty International+1
• Ousmane Toudou, a journalist and former adviser to ex-President Bazoum, was detained shortly after the coup. Amnesty International
• Most recently, six media figures were arrested for sharing a press briefing invitation tied to the Solidarity Fund for the Safeguarding of the Homeland. Human Rights Watch

These actions create a climate of fear. Many journalists now self-censor to avoid legal repercussions or worse. Human Rights Watch+1

4. Institutional Control over Media

Beyond legal pressure, the junta has taken steps to control media institutions directly.

• The Maison de la Presse, an independent media association, was suspended in early 2024. A new management committee was installed, led by a government official. Human Rights Watch
• According to Human Rights Watch, this move undermines independent media advocacy and consolidates state influence. Human Rights Watch
• Freedom House downgraded Niger’s status to “Not Free” in its 2025 report, citing a crackdown on civil liberties and media freedom. Freedom House

5. Self-Censorship and an Eroding Information Space

With arrests and aggressive laws, many journalists are choosing to self-censor. Reporting on government missteps or security matters has become riskier, and some media outlets avoid controversial topics altogether. Amnesty International+1

This self-censorship erodes meaningful public discourse and weakens the role of the media as a check on power.

6. International and Civil Society Response

Human rights organizations are sounding the alarm:

• Amnesty International calls for the unconditional release of detained journalists and urges the junta to respect freedom of expression. Amnesty International+1
• RSF (Reporters Without Borders) has criticized Niger’s media laws and called on the government to enforce protections for journalists. Reporters Without Borders

Yet despite international pressure, structural reforms remain elusive. The newly created Observatoire National de la Communication (ONC) — tasked with regulating media — has raised concerns about its independence and true commitment to free expression. Wikipedia

7. Why Press Freedom in Niger Matters

• Accountability: Without a free press, government abuses may go unchecked.
• Information during crisis: Niger is plagued by security challenges, and citizens need independent news to understand what’s happening.
• Democratic legitimacy: A genuine transition—and any hope for long-term stability—depends on open debate and scrutiny.

Conclusion

Press freedom in modern Niger is under serious threat. Since the 2023 coup, the media environment has deteriorated: laws have become more repressive, journalists are being detained, and self-censorship is widespread. If civil society, international actors, and Nigerien institutions want to preserve some space for independent journalism, urgent reforms are needed—and fast.