Le cadre juridique de l'implication des jeunes filles sur les questions de citoyenneté au Niger

This paper examines the legal framework governing the civic participation of young girls in Niger. It argues that, despite significant legal progress, the effective involvement of girls in public life remains hindered by structural, institutional, and socio-cultural barriers. The study highlights national laws such as the Charter of Refoundation, gender quota legislation, and education policies, as well as Niger’s commitment to international instruments including CEDAW and the African Youth Charter. While these texts provide a formal basis for gender equality and inclusive citizenship, their implementation remains weak due to contradictions between modern, customary, and religious laws, persistent patriarchal norms, early marriage, and poverty. Public policies are often too general and insufficiently adapted to the specific needs of young girls, particularly in rural areas. The paper concludes that strengthening legal enforcement, transforming social norms through citizenship education, and promoting girls’ empowerment are essential to achieving genuine inclusion. An integrated approach would enable young girls to fully exercise their citizenship and contribute meaningfully to Niger’s democratic and sustainable development.