Protection Issues
Niger is facing a protection and humanitarian crisis in border areas with Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Mali, where armed groups perpetuate attacks against security forces and civilians. The security situation continues to be disrupted by larger-scale incidents in the Nigerien part of Liptako Gourma, in the Lake Chad, the southwest of the Maradi region and parts of the Tahoua region. This deterioration in the security situation has resulted in an increase in the number of displaced persons in the country. The regions hosting the highest number of displaced persons are respectively Tillabéri, Diffa, Tahoua and Maradi. In addition, all regions in Niger are vulnerable to disasters and the impact of climate change. Conflicts and violence result in widespread human rights violations and protection issues, such as gender-based violence, abductions, killings, cattle rustling, extortion and the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Attacks from armed groups increase protection risks and continue to forcibly displaced communities in the regions of Diffa, Maradi, Tahoua and Tillabéri. Climatic hazards limit access to services, including health, nutrition, housing, water, sanitation and education.
Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan in 2026
About the Protection Cluster
The Protection Cluster in Niger was activated in January 2012 to ensure the coordination of protection interventions in emergencies and to respond to the protection needs of persons affected by conflict and disasters. The Protection Cluster is led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), co-led by the Ministère de la Population, de l’Action Sociale et de la Solidarité Nationale (MP/AS/SN). It includes thematic working groups on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Child Protection (CP), and Mine Action. The Protection Cluster counts 120 protection partners.
Coordination Team
Protection Cluster Coordinator
Assistant Protection Cluster Coordination Officer
Information Management Officer
Gender-Based Violence Lead
Child Protection Lead
Child Protection Co-Lead



