On Monday, European Union countries adopted a framework to impose sanctions on junta members that seized power in the Niger Republic.

The EU Council said the new framework would allow the EU to sanction individuals and entities responsible for actions that threaten the peace, stability, and security of Niger.

It added that the framework would undermine the constitutional order or constitute serious human rights violations or international humanitarian law.

According to the EU, it aims to mirror and strengthen any measures taken by the West African regional body, ECOWAS.

EU foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell said, “The EU has from the very beginning condemned the coup d’état in Niger in the strongest terms.

“With today’s decision, the EU strengthens its support for ECOWAS’ efforts and sends a clear message: military coups bear costs.’’

Mr Borrell said that with the restrictive measures, the EU could freeze the assets of targeted entities and individuals and hand them travel bans.

(Reuters/NAN)