ECOWAS Acknowledges Withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally acknowledged the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the regional bloc. The withdrawal, which takes effect on January 29, 2025, marks a significant shift in the regional dynamics of West Africa.

Background to the Withdrawal

The decision to withdraw from ECOWAS was announced in January 2024 by the three countries, citing concerns that the regional body had deviated from its founding principles and was succumbing to external influences. The countries specifically criticized the imposition of sanctions aimed at reversing their respective coups.

New Regional Bloc: Alliance of Sahel States (AES)

In response to their withdrawal from ECOWAS, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have established a new regional bloc, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Modeled after the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the AES aims to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its member states.

The AES has also coordinated diplomatic positions vis-à-vis foreign powers, accusing Ukraine of supporting rebel groups in northern Mali, a charge Kyiv has rejected. The new bloc has also sought to strengthen ties with other regional powers, including Russia and China.

Implications of the Withdrawal

The implications of the withdrawal are far-reaching, with potential disruptions to regional trade, mobility, and security cooperation. The free movement of people and goods, facilitated by ECOWAS, may be affected, and the economic ties between the AES countries are modest compared to their reliance on neighboring countries’ infrastructure.

ECOWAS Response

ECOWAS has set a six-month transitional period from January 29, 2025, to July 29, 2025, during which time the doors remain open for the three countries to return to the regional body. However, the military regimes in the three countries have insisted that their exit is irreversible.

In a statement, ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray expressed regret over the withdrawal, saying, “We respect the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from ECOWAS. However, we remain committed to maintaining good relations with our brothers and sisters in the three countries.”

Conclusion

The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS marks a significant shift in the regional dynamics of West Africa. As the three countries embark on a new path with the AES, the implications for regional trade, mobility, and security cooperation remain to be seen.