Latest updates to EU restrictive measures

The Council of the European Union has adopted a new sanctions framework in relation to the current situation in Niger, and extended the restrictive measures against Burundi, ISIL/Da’esh and Al-Qaeda for a further year.

Niger

Following Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2287 and Regulation (EU) 2023/2406, the EU adopted a framework for restrictive measures in view of the situation in Niger. On July 2023, a coup d’état took place, leading to the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum and the establishment of a military-led junta.

All funds and economic resources belonging to, owned, held or controlled by any natural or legal person, entity or body as listed in Annex I to Regulation (EU) No 2023/2406 shall be frozen. No funds or economic resources shall be made available, directly or indirectly, to or for the benefit of natural or legal persons, entities or bodies listed in Annex I.

This Annex shall include individuals and entities responsible for actions that threaten the peace, stability and security of Niger, undermine the constitutional order, democracy, the rule of law, or constitute serious human rights violations or abuses, or violations of applicable international humanitarian law in Niger.

It should be noted that Annex I is not currently populated, but it is reasonable to assume that it will be populated in the near future.

Burundi

In view of the situation in Burundi, on 23 October 2023 the Council renewed the restrictive measures provided for in Council Regulation (EU) 2015/1755 for a further year, until 31 October 2024.