Since gaining independence in 1960, Niger has been caught in many political, social and economic crises.

The security situation in the country is unstable, as Niger is currently caught between the Boko Haram crisis in Nigeria and the crises in northern Mali and Libya. The dormant Tuareg uprisings, combined with the flourishing market for trafficking in arms, drugs and humans, are further destabilizing Niger.

The upcoming elections are therefore crucial but they also present many challenges, as this Situation Analysis details.