Briefing: How a mutiny became a(nother) coup: The politics of counterinsurgency and international military partnerships in Niger.

This briefing analyzes the factors behind the Nigerien Security and Defence Forces' (FDS) consolidated support for the coup d'état initiated on 26 July 2023, arguing that ideological motivations—particularly opposition to President Mohamed Bazoum's counter-insurgency strategy and the presence of French troops—were central to its success. While previous explanations have emphasized patrimonialism and rent-seeking among political and military elites, these alone do not fully account for the broad support across ranks or the coup's direction. The coup leaders framed their actions as a necessary correction to Niger's security approach and a reclaiming of national sovereignty by removing French military presence, which resonated widely within the military and civilian population. This sovereigntist narrative helped create a perception of inevitable support, facilitating intra-military coordination and minimizing resistance despite significant risks, though the long-term sustainability of this support amid regional sanctions and ongoing security challenges remains uncertain.