Considerable tensions exist between the Tuaregs in the north and the southern groups. The Tuaregs' sense of alienation from mainstream Niger politics has increased since the 1973 and 1983 droughts. Their herds decimated, many Tuaregs were forced away from their nomadic way of life to the towns. Northern Tuaregs responded to these pressures by mounting a low-key revolt.
A more subtle antagonism exists between the Djerma and Hausa groups. Until recently, the Djerma elite from the southwest dominated politics in Niger. Since 1993, however, control has passed to the Hausa majority.
Niger is essentially an Islamic society, having an 80% Muslim majority. Women have, on the whole, only limited rights and restricted access to education.
