Benin: MPs pass a law to support victims of insecurity

A Beninese soldier in Cotonou, April 9, 2021. Soldiers who are victims of insecurity and their families will be better taken care of following a new law.

© PIUS UTOMI EKPEI / AFP

Text by: RFI Follow

1 min

Beninese deputies passed a law on the care of people who died or were injured on mission as well as their families, on Wednesday, November 23.

The military are the first beneficiaries.

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With our correspondent in Cotonou,

Jean-Luc Aplogan

This law was initiated following

numerous attacks by armed groups

in which several Beninese soldiers lost their lives.

The text

applies to soldiers who died or disappeared on a mission ordered

, such as the maintenance of order, the defense of the territory or external missions.

It takes into account civilians under the same conditions.

Rights holders, legally married spouses, declared or undeclared children who provide proof of filiation will also be able to benefit from it.

The text provides, among other things, for a death benefit and 100% health cover for the injured.

Minor children will be cared for up to the age of 21 and will benefit from the financing of their studies and free medical insurance.

A law appreciated by the soldiers

An implementing decree will specify the amounts that will be paid by the government to bereaved families.

According to a senior officer, the passage of the law was well received by the troops.

For them, the recognition of the nation will no longer be reduced to a ceremony of homage for service rendered to the nation.

The law will enter into force after its promulgation by

the Head of State.

►Also read: In Benin, a new law greatly restricts the right to strike

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