Niger

Niger hosts 580,838 people of concern, of which 48% are internally displaced persons (IDPs), 43% refugees, 6 % returnees, 2 % asylum seekers and other persons of concern (mainly Burkinabe’s). Most refugees come from Nigeria (73%) and Mali (21%). The population is predominantly young (58 % youths), with women accounting for 53 %. 

As a result of continuous deterioration of security in its border, Niger has been accumulating situations of forced displacement (out and in) since 2012, including the latest waves from Burkina Faso, Mali and northwestern Nigeria. 

UNHCR’s work in Niger focuses on providing holistic assistance and comprehensive protection and solutions for persons of concern, including PSEA (Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse), with particular attention on women, children and other persons with specific needs. Thanks to urbanisation projects and livelihood opportunities, operations are guided by a community-based approach and supported by a Nexus approach. 

Niger is the first country to establish an Emergency Transit Mechanism / ETM for refugees from Libya. Niger is a party to the most relevant international and regional legal instruments protecting refugees, IDPs, and stateless persons. The country has passed national laws and decrees to transpose its international commitments.